Clock Transitions Generated by Defects in Silica Glass

Abstract

Clock transitions (CTs) in spin systems, which occur at avoided level crossings, enhance quantum coherence lifetimes T${}_2$ because the transition becomes immune to the decohering effects of magnetic field fluctuations to first order. We present the first electron-spin resonance (ESR) characterization of CTs in certain defect-rich silica glasses, noting coherence times up to 16 $\hat{I}¼$s at the CTs. We find CT behavior at zero magnetic field in borosilicate and aluminosilicate glasses, but not in a variety of silica glasses lacking boron or aluminum. Annealing reduces or eliminates the zero-field signal. Since boron and aluminum have the same valence and are acceptors when substituted for silicon, we suggest the observed CT behavior could be generated by a spin-1 boron vacancy center within the borosilicate glass, and similarly, an aluminum-vacancy center in the aluminosilicate glass.

The Main Manuscript features 9 pages, 5 figures, and 1 table. The Supplement features an additional 6 pages, 4 figures, and two tables