Munich Startup: What does Quantum Diamonds do? What problem do you solve?
Dr. Fleming Bruckmaier: Quantum Diamonds develops highly sensitive sensors based on nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamonds. This technology enables non-invasive quality control in the semiconductor industry by detecting minimal leakage currents. Conventional sensors often reach their physical limits, while our sensors can identify potential defects at an early stage and thus improve the efficiency of semiconductor production.
Munich Startup: But that already exists!
Dr. Fleming Bruckmaier: Up to now, optical methods have mainly been used for quality control. However, as modern chips are becoming increasingly complex and consist of several layers, methods are needed that can see through all layers. Our technology differs in that it uses NV centers in high-purity diamonds, which enables extremely high sensitivity and resolution. The quantum states in the NV centers are influenced by temperature as well as magnetic and electric fields and can be read optically. This offers higher precision and lower invasiveness compared to existing solutions.
Munich Startup: What is your founding story?
Kevin Berghoff: The founding of Quantum Diamonds began with Dr. Fleming Bruckmaier’s research on quantum sensors for chemical analysis. This work revealed broader application possibilities in semiconductor manufacturing. At an UnternehmerTUM workshop, Fleming met me and my vision for the commercial use of quantum sensors. Supported by the EXIST start-up grant, we launched Quantum Diamonds to develop innovative solutions for the semiconductor industry.
Challenging search for investors and experts
Munich Startup: What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Dr. Fleming Bruckmaier: Our biggest challenges were financing such a complex topic, attracting global experts to Munich and ensuring the relevance of our technology for applications. Acquiring investment for in-depth technological innovations is demanding, as they often involve high risks and long development times. It was also a challenge to bring leading international experts to Munich to form a complementary team. After all, it is crucial that our developments are practical and meet the actual requirements of the industry.
Munich Startup: Where would you like to be in one year, where would you like to be in five years?
Kevin Berghoff: In one year, we would like to successfully use our sensors in pilot projects with leading semiconductor companies and conclude the first commercial contracts. In five years, we aim to be an established provider of quantum sensor solutions for the semiconductor industry and expand our technology to other industrial sectors, including materials science and biomedicine.
Munich is the ideal location for Quantum Diamonds
Munich Startup: How have you experienced Munich as a startup location so far?
Kevin Berghoff: Munich offers an excellent environment for startups, especially in the semiconductor industry. With companies such as Infineon, Qualcomm, Zeiss, TDK, Huawei and Apple, as well as the leading research institutions TUM, UnternehmerTUM and Werk1, there are numerous opportunities for cooperation and support. The city has a strong network of investors and companies that are open to innovative projects. This support and resources have helped us significantly to drive our vision forward.
Munich Startup: Outsource or do it yourself?
Dr. Fleming Bruckmaier: We pursue a hybrid strategy. We develop critical components such as quantum sensors and analysis software in-house to ensure our innovative strength and quality. Standard microscopy equipment is sourced from specialized partners in the semiconductor industry with lower production volumes. This approach enables us to react flexibly and efficiently to market requirements and make optimum use of our resources.