Munich Startup: What does Quantum Diamonds do? What problem are you solving?
Dr. Fleming Bruckmaier: Quantum Diamonds develops highly sensitive sensors based on nitrogen-vacancy centers (NV centers) in diamonds. This technology enables non-invasive quality control in the semiconductor industry by detecting minimal leakage currents. Conventional sensors often reach physical limits, while our sensors can identify potential defects early and thus improve the efficiency of semiconductor production.
Munich Startup: But that already exists, doesn’t it?
Dr. Fleming Bruckmaier: So far, optical methods have primarily been used for quality control. However, as modern chips become increasingly complex and consist of multiple layers, methods are needed that can see through all layers. Our technology differs through the use of NV centers in ultra-pure diamonds, which enables extremely high sensitivity and resolution. The quantum states in the NV centers are influenced by temperature as well as magnetic and electrical fields and can be read out optically. This offers higher precision and lower invasiveness compared to existing solutions.
Munich Startup: What’s your founding story?
Kevin Berghoff: The founding of Quantum Diamonds began with Dr. Fleming Bruckmaier’s research into quantum sensors for chemical analysis. This work revealed broader applications in semiconductor manufacturing. At an UnternehmerTUM workshop, Fleming met me and my vision for the commercial use of quantum sensors. Supported by the EXIST founder grant, we started 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 greatest challenges were securing funding for such a complex topic, recruiting global experts to Munich, and ensuring the practical relevance of our technology. Acquiring investment for in-depth technological innovation is demanding, as it often involves high risks and long development periods. Additionally, it was a challenge to bring internationally leading experts to Munich to build a complementary team. Finally, it is crucial that our developments are practice-oriented and meet the actual requirements of the industry.
Munich Startup: Where do you want to be in one year, where in five years?
Kevin Berghoff: In one year, we want to successfully deploy our sensors in pilot projects with leading semiconductor companies and conclude our 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 the Munich startup ecosystem so far?
Kevin Berghoff: Munich offers an excellent environment for startups, particularly in the semiconductor industry sector. With companies like Infineon, Qualcomm, Zeiss, TDK, Huawei, and Apple, as well as 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 greatly helped us advance our vision.
Munich Startup: Outsource or do it yourself?
Dr. Fleming Bruckmaier: We pursue a hybrid strategy. Critical components like quantum sensors and evaluation software are developed in-house to ensure our innovation capability and quality. Standard microscopy equipment is sourced from specialized partners in the semiconductor industry with lower production volumes. This approach allows us to respond flexibly and efficiently to market requirements and optimize our resource utilization.
