Luxembourg is at the forefront of quantum technology, with researchers developing quantum chips that could revolutionize the quantum internet and quantum computers. Florian Kaiser, Head of the Quantum Materials research group in Luxembourg, is leading this ambitious project, aiming to create a 'Quantum System-on-Chip'. This innovation promises to boost performance and enable cost-effective production through standard semiconductor technology.
Quantum computers can tackle complex mathematical problems beyond the reach of classical machines. Quantum simulators can aid in discovering new, efficient materials for a sustainable society. Quantum sensors offer unparalleled sensitivity for investigations at both nano and macro scales, from nano-MRI to gravitational wave detection.
The core of this technology lies in qubits based on optically-active spins in silicon carbide crystals, known as 'color centers'. These centers, atomically small defects within the crystal, exhibit single-atom-like quantum properties. Photons emitted by these centers can serve as a photonic communication bus, facilitating quantum information transfer and routing within a quantum internet.
Dr. Kaiser emphasizes the importance of optimizing every step of the fabrication process to improve the reproducibility of color centers. His team has established a high-throughput quantum color center characterization platform to accelerate research. The vision is to leverage professional nanofabrication at established semiconductor foundries, fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
Silicon carbide's unique position as an established industrial semiconductor allows for the use of standard electronic devices to suppress charge noise around color centers. This has proven crucial for maximizing coherence times. The development of quantum repeater nodes, based on silicon carbide color centers, is a natural progression towards a long-distance, fully secure quantum communication network.