Enhancing chiral molecule detection: A weak measurement approach utilizing two-dimensional information

Abstract

This study addresses the critical need for high purity chiral molecules in biological systems by overcoming the challenges associated with the quantitative detection of chiral molecules and their enantiomeric mixtures. We developed an innovative detection approach that leverages the two-dimensional information gleaned from natural optical rotation (NOR) and Faraday optical rotation (FOR) under magnetic fields in chiral molecules, combined with an ultrahigh-resolution weak measurement sensor. This novel weak measurement system achieves unparalleled accuracy in detecting spin angles, with a precision of 1.86 × 10−5°. Notably, our method introduces no chemical reactions or interference with the substances under test. It offers enhanced discrimination capabilities through the dual-dimensional analysis of both natural and Faraday optical rotation, alongside a simple and compact sensor design. Conclusively, our study introduces a novel, high-precision, and multi-dimensional optical detection paradigm for chiral molecules. By incorporating Faraday rotation in the presence of a magnetic field, we expand the informational dimensionality accessible to the original weak measurement sensor, facilitating the quantitative analysis of chiral molecules and their enantiomers. This breakthrough not only furnishes a novel instrument for the exploration and development of chiral pharmaceuticals but also propels the advancement of weak measurement sensing technology forward.