Detection and manipulation of statistical polarization in small spin ensembles

Abstract

We report the detection of the [Formula presented] statistical polarization in a small ensemble of electron spin centers in [Formula presented] by magnetic resonance force microscopy. A novel detection technique was employed that captures the statistical polarization and cycles it between states that are either locked or antilocked to the effective field in the rotating frame. Using field gradients as high as [Formula presented], we achieved a detection sensitivity equivalent to roughly two electron spins, and observed ultralong spin-lock lifetimes, as long as 20 s. Given a sufficient signal-to-noise ratio, this scheme should be extendable to single electron spin detection. © 2003 The American Physical Society.