Amsterdam Scientific Instruments (ASI) and CERN: Pushing the Frontiers of Quantum Research and Technology

Amsterdam Scientific Instruments (ASI) has become a recognised innovator in the world of quantum science, neutron research, and mass spectrometry. This was accelerated during 2024 when images obtained using an ASI component were published in a research paper that went viral over social media as 2023 drew to a close. That ASI component uses a CERN Timepix3 chip, designed as part of the Medipix3 collaboration. Timepix3 is at the core of ASI products, making it a vital piece of technology that powers ASI’s product line and is central to the company’s success.

ASI’s Growing Partnership with CERN

The well-established partnership between ASI and CERN has been a catalyst for innovation. Timepix3 enables ASI to take ultra-precise measurements of time, position, and energy, allowing ASI’s products to offer excellent accuracy in quantum experiments, neutron science, and other high-energy applications.

ASI obtained a license for the Timepix3 chip in 2017. Timepix3 offers an impressive level of time resolution, which is critical for quantum science, where even tiny fluctuations in time can make a noticeable difference. By leveraging CERN technologies, ASI has produced a range of products that can handle the most demanding scientific environments, such as ASI’s Chronos Series that includes the Phoebe hybrid pixel detector being used in quantum applications.

Applications of ASI’s Technology

One notable application of ASI’s technology is in quantum, where ASI’s sensors help to enhance the sensitivity and precision of quantum experiments. For example, the ASI Phoebe Timepix3 Camera has improved detection capabilities for single photons, which are fundamental to quantum applications like quantum computing, cryptography, and communications.

Another example is ASI’s collaboration with research teams to develop a quantum sensor for precision timekeeping. This could have implications in a wide range of applications, from GPS systems development to fundamental physics research. Further, in quantum imaging, ASI is helping to unlock new insights into the behaviour of matter at the quantum level, further deepening our understanding of the universe.

ASI’s technology is also used in other fields. For example, it plays a role in neutron science, where their detectors enable the precise measurement of neutron interactions, opening up new avenues for research in materials science, physics, and medicine. In velocity map imaging (VMI) and mass spectrometry, ASI’s instruments help researchers analyse and identify chemical compounds with remarkable accuracy, which is vital for multiple areas, such as from drug development to environmental monitoring.

ASI’s contributions to research adds to the growing body of knowledge in many different domains as well as in quantum science. ASI’s clients have published over 140 papers to date related to the Timepix3 chip.

Feeding Back Innovations into CERN and the Domain of High-Energy Physics

ASI’s innovations are also supporting R&D programmes for innovative particle detectors. One example is the use of ASI’s technology in the innovative 3D optical imaging Liquid Argon Time Projection Chamber (LArTPC) built by the ARIADNE project, funded by the STFC and ERC. The ARIADNE technology has the potential to be an alternative to current charge readout methods for future LArTPC neutrino detectors and is a serious candidate for the DUNE Liquid Argon far detector.

This is just one example of how the work of Medipix collaborations and of their licensees influence one another, benefitting both basic research and commercial uptake.