Bosch quantum tech could spark medical breakthroughs

German tech giant Bosch has established a new startup for the commercialisation of quantum sensors, which could bring major medical advancements.

Quantum sensors work by using individual atoms of a gas or defects in a solid as atomic measuring instruments. The unique way in which these sensors are initialised before measurement, as well as their ability to detect quantum states afterwards, allow for an unprecedented level of precision.

Advancements in quantum technology mean that measurements will soon be carried that are almost 1000 times more precise than those done by today's Micro-Electro-Mechanical-System (MEMS) sensors.

Read more: Quantum tech could be used to detect dementia symptoms

For example, quantum sensors will be able to help diagnose neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's more accurately and easily. They can also be used to record nerve impulses, and therefore could also control artificial limbs.

These sensors can also detect the tiniest changes in an object's position. 

According to Bosch, the company has been researching quantum sensors for the past seven years and has built fully functional and powerful demonstrators of a quantum magnetometer and a quantum gyrometer.

Quantum magnetometers can be used to detect the tiny magnetic fields generated by physiological processes, while quantum gyrometers permit the high-precision detection of rotations for the navigation of autonomous systems.

The company says that the long-term goal is to achieve further miniaturisation and integrate the technology on a chip. 

Jens Fabrowsky, the executive vice-president of Bosch Automotive Electronics responsible for the semiconductor business, said: "Quantum technology is pushing the boundaries of what is possible – in both data processing and sensors. Above all, the aim is to increase the broad practical benefit of quantum effects – for everything from the development of carbon-neutral powertrains to neurological diagnosis.

"Bosch has been doing extensive research in quantum sensing for many years now, and we see ourselves as global leaders in this area. Now we also want to use this as a basis for future business models."

Read more: Bosch begins SiC semiconductor production in Germany

The market for quantum sensing is expected to grow enormously in the years ahead. Last year, $22 billion (€19.4 billion) was invested in quantum technology worldwide and according to figures from McKinsey & Co., the market for quantum sensors is expected to grow to as much as $7 billion (€6.17 billion).

The CEO of the new, as-yet-unnamed startup, Dr Katrin Kobe, said in a statement: "At Bosch, research is a top priority. As a global company with alliances and expertise in quantum technology, Bosch is seizing the opportunity to make headway with this promising new field in an agile startup environment."

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