GCC - Gravity Cartography Catalyst

Detecting the world around us has long been a cornerstone of scientific research, with many sensing technologies developed for commercial use rather than purely scientific merit.The ability to view the subterranean environment was limited to destructive exploratory techniques, but in recent years commercial remote sensors have become more widespread. However, nondestructive methods can be severely hindered, ground features can be obscured and vibration or electromagnetic interference can prevent measurements altogether.

These issues fundamentally limit the existing technologies for construction and infrastructure monitoring due to costly excavation and site closures which may not be possible.

Quantum sensing techniques can overcome these barriers with precision measurements of gravity. Through cold-atom interferometry the quantum nature of a rubidium atom is compared to the phase of a laser beam, detecting very small changes in how the atoms fall freely in a vacuum. These changes can be used to determine the local gravitational acceleration, betraying the location of voids, pipes, tunnels or oil and gas reserves beneath your feet.

Recent scientific achievements have proven atom interferometry is an invaluable tool for subsurface detection of features like buried tunnels or pipelines (doi.org/10.1038/s41586-021-04315-3). The technology to make the step to quantum sensors already exists, and has been proven in the field, however it needs commercial engineering techniques to bring it into everyday use by those without highly specialised training.

Delta g Limited, a new quantum start-up in a unique position to take advantage of this second-generation quantum technology, will deliver the world's first commercial single button gravity gradiometer into the hands of end-users. Delta g brings world class expertise in quantum gravity gradiometry for field measurements, with direct links to the University of Birmingham and the QT Hub for Sensors and Timing to provide scientific support.

Leaders from multiple industries will be involved as advisors or subcontractors to deliver key project capabilities. STL, an engineering consultancy with experience in bringing deep tech quantum to the commercial sphere, will deliver bespoke software, control and RF capabilities. NKT Photonics, a world leading laser system and component manufacturer, will provide a customised COTS laser engine for the GCC system.

At an initial project workshop Delta g will present the results of previous trials, these will then be used as a benchmark and a panel of advisors, from across multiple industrial verticals, will use this to define a set of requirements and success criteria for the project.