Quantum Metrology

Redefining measurement through quantum physics

Metrology — the science of measurement — defines how we quantify the world around us. It provides the standards that ensure a kilogram in Paris weighs the same as one in Tokyo, or that a second on your watch matches the exact time everywhere on Earth.

Historically, metrology has supported every technological breakthrough: industrial production, global trade, scientific discoveries. It makes units universal, stable and comparable across time and space.

But as technology advances, the demands on measurement precision grow sharper. This is where quantum metrology comes in — using the laws of quantum mechanics to push beyond the limits of classical measurement.

What makes a measurement trustworthy?

A good unit of measurement must be:

Universal: understood and usable by everyone, regardless of context or location.
Stable: its reference must not change over time — a kilogram must always stay a kilogram.
Practical: it must be possible to implement it reproducibly, so that every laboratory or industrial site can calibrate its instruments the same way.

From classical standards to quantum precision

Modern metrology emerged in the 18th century with the French Revolution and the first global standards for length and mass. Over time, new units for time, temperature and electric current were defined to answer growing industrial and scientific needs.

For decades, these units relied on physical artifacts or observable macroscopic phenomena. For example, the meter once depended on the length of a metal rod — but this changed slightly depending on temperature or material stress.

In the 20th century, quantum mechanics opened a new era: measurements based on fundamental physical constants rather than human-made objects. This shift makes units more stable and more universally applicable.

An everyday example: the atomic second

One of the earliest applications of quantum metrology is the definition of time itself. In 1967, the “atomic second” was introduced, replacing the traditional pendulum or astronomical methods.

The new second is based on the oscillations of a caesium atom — a quantum effect so precise that it defines the second with an accuracy of 16 decimal places.

Without this quantum standard, countless modern technologies — from GPS navigation to high-speed data transmission — would be far less reliable.

Where KWAN-TEK brings quantum metrology to life

At KWAN-TEK, we extend the principles of quantum metrology beyond timekeeping into industrial and scientific measurement systems that push the limits of what can be detected.

By using NV (Nitrogen-Vacancy) center diamonds, we turn quantum effects into powerful sensors that can:

Detect magnetic fields with extreme resolution.
Map stress or hidden flaws in critical materials.
Provide stable reference signals immune to environmental noise.

Quantum metrology in practice

A stable unit is only useful when you can apply it in real-world conditions. Our quantum sensing solutions make this possible.

Whether you need to inspect aerospace structures, monitor metal corrosion, or calibrate instruments for research, quantum metrology ensures that every measurement is: