Interaction-Free Measurement with Electrons

Here, we experimentally demonstrate interaction-free measurements with electrons using a novel electron Mach-Zehnder interferometer. The flexible two-grating electron interferometer is constructed in a conventional transmission electron microscope and achieves high contrast in discrete output detectors, tunable alignment with independently movable beam splitters, and scanning capabilities for imaging. With this path-separated electron interferometer, which closely matches theoretical expectations, we demonstrate electron interaction-free measurements with an efficiency of 14 +/- 1%. Implementing this quantum protocol in electron imaging opens a path toward interaction-free electron microscopy.

Automated summary

In this experiment, interaction-free measurements with electrons were successfully demonstrated using a novel electron Mach-Zehnder interferometer. The electron interferometer utilized in this study offers flexibility, high contrast, tunability, and scanning capabilities for imaging, achieving a measurement efficiency of 14 +/- 1%. The implementation of this quantum protocol in electron imaging paves the way for interaction-free electron microscopy.