Quantum coherence in a triangular Cu₃ complex

Abstract

We report pulsed electron paramagnetic resonance investigations on [(CuL)₃(OH)](ClO₄)₂ · H₂O, where HL = (E)-2-((3-(methylamino)propylimino) methyl)phenol, to assess its suitability as a qubit. We measured spin-lattice relaxation times up to T₁ = 698(2) μs at 5 K in methanolic frozen solution. The spin-lattice relaxation is driven by the direct process. The phase memory time was determined to be up to T_m = 1290(3) ns in methanolic frozen solution and T_m = 392(5) ns in powder at 5 K, respectively. By means of both continuous waves and pulsed ENDOR spectroscopy, interactions to protons, nitrogen and copper nuclei were observed. The couplings to the protons were shown to be due to dipolar and through bond interactions.

Keywords:

• qubits
• quantum coherence
• molecular nanomagnets
• pulsed electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy
• ENDOR spectroscopy

Acknowledgements

We thank Prof. E. Roduner for allowing us to use his EPR spectrometers.