Sensing with mechanical systems

Mechanical resonators have played a crucial role in sensing applications for centuries, with recent advances in micro- and nanoscale systems propelling the field forward. Innovations in fabrication techniques have enabled researchers from various fields to tailor micromechanical systems for applications in diverse fields ranging from structural health monitoring over inertial sensing to single-molecule detection. Significant progress in modeling and simulation has also enhanced our understanding of complex resonator designs, enabling precise control over their dynamics. Additionally, integrating optical technologies with mechanical resonators has pushed sensors to the limits defined by quantum physics, leading to ultra-sensitive measurements (e.g., gravity). This thematic issue invites contributions from various disciplines to explore the evolving role of mechanical systems in sensing and to encourage cross-disciplinary exchange.

Topics of interest include but are not limited to:

• Novel sensing and measurement techniques: Innovations in sensors such as microphones, inertial sensors, mass spectroscopy, fluid sensing, and atomic force microscopy probes.
• Materials for micromechanical resonators: Established and novel resonator materials such as silicon nitride, silicon carbide, diamond, aluminum nitride, and two-dimensional materials for enhanced functionality.
• Modeling techniques: Specialized methods including finite element analysis, reduced order modeling, machine learning, and multiscale approaches.
• Mode coupling and nonlinear dynamics: Dynamics of single or coupled resonators, collective dynamics, sensor networks.
• Estimation and control: Strategies for precise estimation and control to enhance mechanical sensing systems.
• Quantum sensing: Techniques for quantum-limited detection, noise squeezing, and quantum non-demolition measurements.
• Integrated quantum sensing systems: Integration with photonics, surface and bulk acoustic waves, and levitated particles for enhanced quantum sensing capabilities.
• Optomechanics in the quantum regime: Exploration of non-classical states and quantum noise in optomechanical systems.
• Tests of fundamental physics: Using mechanical systems to probe the intersection of gravity and quantum physics, the limits of quantum mechanics, and the search for dark matter.
• Quantum-enhanced sensing and communication: Bridging quantum sensing with communication, including microwave-to-optical conversion.

Submission deadline: March 31, 2025.