Recent Advances in Diamond Science and Technology

Abstract

We are pleased to present this Topical Section of Physica status solidi (a) showcasing recent, exciting research in the field of diamond science and technology. In particular, it relates to the main topic of the 27 th edition of the international Surface and Bulk Defects in Diamond (SBDD) workshop, featuring various aspects of cutting-edge diamond research. Diamond is an attractive material, not only for fundamental science, but also for innovative applications such as quantum technologies, sensors, nanoscale chemical and biomedical imaging , as well as applications in high power, high frequency and extreme-environment electronics. The largely unique combination of attractive material properties offered by diamond provides a diverse platform for the research and development of a range of such discipline-spanning technologies. For instance, the presence of "colour centres" such as the NV, the SiV and other group IV vacancy centres provides a mechanism for sensing magnetic and electric fields but also for quantum information technology. Similarly, the large bandgap, high charge mobility for both electrons and holes, and the extremely high thermal conductivity make diamond of particular interest for development of next generation electronic components and systems. Complementary to many of these technologies is the versatility and engineering potential provided by the surface of diamond, which has been exploited to great effect in applications from electrochemical sensing to high frequency electronic devices. Control and optimisation of the physical, chemical and electronic properties of the diamond surface is also vital to maximise the potential of, for example, interaction with sub-surface defects for quantum and electromagnetic sensing applications. Progress in this field of diamond technology however also relies on substantial advances in the production of highly controlled diamond materials, with low defect density and controlled impurity levels. Efficient doping, for both p-type and n-type conductivity, also presents ongoing research challenges for diamond electronics maturity, but also offers many fundamental science-rich research opportunities. To address these challenges, researchers develop and optimise reactors for diamond epitaxy, aiming at highly scalable and reproducible processes for diamond wafer production. All of this is followed by in-depth materials analysis, where the improvement of characterization techniques is essential for further advancement in the fascinating research field of diamond. The 27 th SBDD workshop was held in March 2023 where a record number of delegates met in Hasselt, Belgium to discuss and promote their research results in these areas, establish new and fruitful collaborations, and make plans for the future of diamond research and technology development. We hope that this Feature Article and the other articles of this special issue will keep the discussion of current research topics in the field of diamond vibrant and will inspire new research to come, both in the field of diamond, but also in related areas.