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At least 271 records · Page 15

Active 2D materials for on-chip nanophotonics and quantum optics

Two-dimensional materials have emerged as promising candidates to augment existing optical networks for metrology, sensing, and telecommunication, both in the classical and quantum mechanical regimes. Here, we review the development of several on-chip photonic components ranging from electro-optic modulators, photodetectors, bolometers, and light sources that are essential building blocks for a fully integrated nanophotonic and quantum photonic circuit.

2D materials↗

Quantum cryptography and combined schemes of quantum cryptography communication networks

We discuss cryptographic data protection network schemes combining the approaches of quantum cryptography with advanced computer information processing methods. The use of the latter is due to the presence of a number of unsolved problems in the existing quantum key distribution systems and is also associated with projects for the development of network-centric quantum communications and photonic networks, which involves the employment of multi-agent control models. Developments based on the Y-00 protocol with data encoding by the quantum noise of a transmitting laser are considered, and achievements in the field of quantum-optical random number generators are presented. The latter can be also used to design secure multi-valued logic encoding schemes that are promising for increasing the dimension of the key space in the ‘one-time pad’ method, for solving the tasks of position-dependent cryptography and for implementing multi-agent models.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Realizing the Power of Near-Term Quantum Technologies

This the final report of the LDRD project entitled "Realizing the Power of Near-Term Quantum Technologies", which was tasked with laying a theoretical foundation and computational framework for quantum simulation on quantum devices, to support both future Sandia efforts and the broader academic research effort in this area. The unifying theme of the project has been the desire to delineate more clearly the interface between existent classical computing resources that are vast and reliable with emerging quantum computing resources that will be scarce and unreliable for the foreseeable future. We seek to utilize classical computing resources to judge the efficacy of quantum devices for quantum simulation tasks and determine when they exceed the performance of classical devices, thereby achieving "quantum supremacy". This task was initially pursued by adapting the general concept of "parameter space compression" to quantum simulation. An inability to scale this analysis efficiently to large-scale simulations precipitated a shift in focus to assessing quantum supremacy of a specific quantum device, a 1D Bose gas trapped in an optical lattice, that was more amenable to large-scale analysis. We also seek to reconstruct unobserved information from limited observations of a quantum device to enhance their utility. This task was initially pursued as an application of maximum entropy reconstruction. Initial attempts to improve entropy approximations for direct reconstruction by free energy minimization proved to be more difficult than expected, and the focus shifted to the development of a quantum thermostat to facilitate indirect reconstruction by evolving a quantum Markov process. An efficient quantum thermostat is broadly useful for quantum state preparation in almost any quantum simulation task. In the middle of the project, a small opportunistic investment was made in a high-risk experiment to build an analog quantum simulator out of hole quantum dots in Ge/SiGe heterostructures. While a useful simulator was not produced, hole quantum dots at a Ge/SiGe interface have been successfully observed for the first time.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Nitrogen Vacancy Center in Diamond for the Stress and Field Sensing Applications

The nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center in a nanodiamond (ND) crystal is a promising material for quantum information processing, sensing, and computing applications. It is one of the best candidate materials for quantum sensing and metrology expected to work at elevated temperatures and pressures conditions. We computationally show the effect of strain on the defect band edges and band gaps in the NV center diamond. A low energy Hamiltonian is developed for the ±1 spin manifold at the ground state. We show the quantum sensing device is a few orders of magnitude superior in sensing than the traditional optical sensing devices. We also discuss experimental results from the optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) and the spin relaxometry for the field sensing applications. The presentation concludes by providing a model for free spins detection of the rare earth ions.

field sensing applications↗

Quantum networks with neutral atom processing nodes

Abstract Quantum networks providing shared entanglement over a mesh of quantum nodes will revolutionize the field of quantum information science by offering novel applications in quantum computation, enhanced precision in networks of sensors and clocks, and efficient quantum communication over large distances. Recent experimental progress with individual neutral atoms demonstrates a high potential for implementing the crucial components of such networks. We highlight latest developments and near-term prospects on how arrays of individually controlled neutral atoms are suited for both efficient remote entanglement generation and large-scale quantum information processing, thereby providing the necessary features for sharing high-fidelity and error-corrected multi-qubit entangled states between the nodes. We describe both the functionality requirements and several examples for advanced, large-scale quantum networks composed of neutral atom processing nodes.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Electron Spin Polarization in Large Electric Fields

This project investigated the effects of large electric fields on electron spin polarization in semiconductors, which is of interest for spin-based electronics (“spintronics”) and quantum information processing. It has been theoretically proposed that large electric fields could potentially preserve or amplify electron spin polarization, which would make it easier to generate, transport, and detect spin polarization in spin-based devices; however, previous measurements had not measured the response of electron spin polarization at large electric fields. During this project, methods to perform measurements of electron spin polarization at large electric fields were developed and performed using ultrafast time- and spatially-resolved magneto-optical spectroscopy, high-voltage pulses, and lock-in detection. The device geometry was engineered to reduce the threshold voltage required to reach the Gunn threshold, and the effect of optical illumination on the sample conductivity and Gunn oscillations was investigated. Electron spin polarization measurements were performed at electric fields up to and beyond the Gunn threshold for the device. The measurements showed that the electron spin polarization magnitude decreased with increasing electric field in the devices measured, and a spin amplification effect was not observed. However, these effects could potentially exist in a different material or in a material with a different doping concentration or in a different device geometry.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

On the theory of quantum measurement

Many so called paradoxes of quantum mechanics are clarified when the measurement equipment is treated as a quantized system. Every measurement involves nonlinear processes. Self consistent formulations of nonlinear quantum optics are relatively simple. Hence optical measurements, such as the quantum nondemolition (QND) measurement of photon number, are particularly well suited for such a treatment. It shows that the so called 'collapse of the wave function' is not needed for the interpretation of the measurement process. Coherence of the density matrix of the signal is progressively reduced with increasing accuracy of the photon number determination. If the QND measurement is incorporated into the double slit experiment, the contrast ratio of the fringes is found to decrease with increasing information on the photon number in one of the two paths.

Haus, Hermann A.↗

Designing silicon carbide heterostructures for quantum information science: challenges and opportunities

Abstract Silicon carbide (SiC) can be synthesized in a number of different structural forms known as polytypes with a vast array of optically active point defects of interest for quantum information sciences. The ability to control and vary the polytypes during SiC synthesis may offer a powerful methodology for the formation of new material architectures that expand our ability to manipulate these defects, including extending coherence lifetimes and enhancing room temperature operation. Polytypic control during synthesis presents a significant challenge given the extreme conditions under which SiC is typically grown and the number of factors that can influence polytype selection. In situ monitoring of the synthesis process could significantly expand our ability to formulate novel polytype structures. In this perspective, we outline the state of the art and ongoing challenges for precision synthesis in SiC. We discuss available in situ x-ray characterization methods that will be instrumental in understanding the atomic scale growth of SiC and defect formation mechanisms. We highlight optimistic use cases for SiC heterostructures that will become possible with in situ polytypic control and end by discussing extended opportunities for integration of ultrahigh quality SiC materials with other semiconductor and quantum materials.

Harmon, K. J. (ORCID:0000000164277971)↗

Selective and Scalable Control of Spin Quantum Memories in a Photonic Circuit

A central goal in many quantum information processing applications is a network of quantum memories that can be entangled with each other while being individually controlled and measured with high fidelity. This goal has motivated the development of programmable photonic integrated circuits (PICs) with integrated spin quantum memories using diamond color center spin-photon interfaces. However, this approach introduces a challenge into the microwave control of individual spins within closely packed registers. Here, we present a quantum memory-integrated photonics platform capable of (i) the integration of multiple diamond color center spins into a cryogenically compatible, high-speed programmable PIC platform, (ii) selective manipulation of individual spin qubits addressed via tunable magnetic field gradients, and (iii) simultaneous control of qubits using numerically optimized microwave pulse shaping. The combination of localized optical control, enabled by the PIC platform, together with selective spin manipulation opens the path to scalable quantum networks on intrachip and interchip platforms.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Large-scale integration of artificial atoms in hybrid photonic circuits

A central challenge in developing quantum computers and long-range quantum networks is the distribution of entanglement across many individually controllable qubits. Colour centres in diamond have emerged as leading solid-state ‘artificial atom’ qubits because they enable on-demand remote entanglement, coherent control of over ten ancillae qubits with minute-long coherence times and memory-enhanced quantum communication. A critical next step is to integrate large numbers of artificial atoms with photonic architectures to enable large-scale quantum information processing systems. So far, these efforts have been stymied by qubit inhomogeneities, low device yield and complex device requirements. Here we introduce a process for the high-yield heterogeneous integration of ‘quantum microchiplets’—diamond waveguide arrays containing highly coherent colour centres—on a photonic integrated circuit (PIC). We use this process to realize a 128-channel, defect-free array of germanium-vacancy and silicon-vacancy colour centres in an aluminium nitride PIC. Photoluminescence spectroscopy reveals long-term, stable and narrow average optical linewidths of 54 megahertz (146 megahertz) for germanium-vacancy (silicon-vacancy) emitters, close to the lifetime-limited linewidth of 32 megahertz (93 megahertz). We show that inhomogeneities of individual colour centre optical transitions can be compensated in situ by integrated tuning over 50 gigahertz without linewidth degradation. The ability to assemble large numbers of nearly indistinguishable and tunable artificial atoms into phase-stable PICs marks a key step towards multiplexed quantum repeaters and general-purpose quantum processors

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Rare isotope-containing diamond colour centres for fundamental symmetry tests

Detecting a non-zero electric dipole moment in a particle would unambiguously signify physics beyond the Standard Model. A potential pathway towards this is the detection of a nuclear Schiff moment, the magnitude of which is enhanced by the presence of nuclear octupole deformation. However, due to the low production rate of isotopes featuring such ‘pear-shaped’ nuclei, capturing, detecting and manipulating them efficiently is a crucial prerequisite. Incorporating them into synthetic diamond optical crystals can produce defects with defined, molecule-like structures and isolated electronic states within the diamond band gap, increasing capture efficiency, enabling repeated probing of even a single atom and producing narrow optical linewidths. In this study, we used density functional theory to investigate the formation, structure and electronic properties of crystal defects in diamond containing 229 ⁢Pa, a rare isotope that is predicted to have an exceptionally strong nuclear octupole deformation. In addition, we identified and studied stable lanthanide-containing defects with similar electronic structures as non-radioactive proxies to aid in experimental methods. Our findings hold promise for the existence of such defects and can contribute to the development of a quantum information processing-inspired toolbox of techniques for studying rare isotopes.

07 ISOTOPE AND RADIATION SOURCES↗

[MODIS Investigation]

The objectives of the last six months were: Continue analysis of Hawaii Ocean Time-series (HOT) bio-optical mooring data, Recover instrumentation from JGOFS cruises in the Southern Ocean and analyze data Maintain documentation of MOCEAN algorithms and software for use by MOCEAN and GLI teams Continue chemostat experiments on the relationship of fluorescence quantum yield to environmental factors. Continue to develop and expand browser-based information system for in situ bio-optical data Work Analysis of Field Data from Hawaii We are continuing to analyze bio-optical data collected at the Hawaii Ocean Time Series mooring. The HOT bio-optical mooring was recovered in May 1998. After retrieving the data, the sensor package was serviced and redeployed. We now have over 18 months of data. These are being analyzed as part of a larger study of mesoscale processes at this JGOFS time series site. We have had some failures in the data logger which have affected the fluorescence channels. These are being repaired. We also had an instrument housing failure, and minor modifications have been made to avoid subsequent problems. In addition, Ricardo Letelier is funded as part of the SeaWiFS calibrator/validation effort (through a subcontract from the University of Hawaii, Dr. John Porter), and he is collecting bio-optical and fluorescence data as part of the HOT activity.

Abbott, Mark R.↗

Laser Controlled Tunneling in a Vertical Optical Lattice

Raman laser pulses are used to induce coherent tunneling between neighboring sites of a vertical 1D optical lattice. Such tunneling occurs when the detuning of a probe laser from the atomic transition frequency matches multiples of the Bloch frequency, allowing for a spectroscopic control of the coupling between Wannier-Stark (WS) states. In particular, we prepare coherent superpositions of WS states of adjacent sites, and investigate the coherence time of these superpositions by realizing a spatial interferometer. This scheme provides a powerful tool for coherent manipulation of external degrees of freedom of cold atoms, which is a key issue for quantum information processing.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Monitoring and Control of Chemical Composition of InGaN Layers During MOCVD

This Department of Energy SBIR Phase II grant targets the inefficiency of the epitaxial processes used to deposit wide band-gap semiconductor thin films that are an essential part of the next generation high-brightness LEDs for solid state lighting. Non-uniformity of the layers over a single wafer and non-repeatability over the wafers in a single batch, separate batches and separate reactors are some of the primary source of reduced manufacturing yield. The team performed extensive research, development and validation of an in-situ spectroscopic optical monitoring and epitaxial process control system. The system monitors the LED thin films as they grow on the individual wafers inside the epitaxial reactor, records the signal in a broad spectral range and processes the information to retrieve essential film quality parameters and their variation over a single wafer, all the wafers in a batch and multiple batches. A novel software algorithm is implemented, which performs real-time spectral pattern recognition and displays any abnormalities or differences in the deposition, which is used by the engineer to optimize the epitaxial process. The project resulted in the optimization of the LED film growth and improvement of its uniformity and repeatability, reducing the cost of the final LED devices.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Adaptively controlled fast production of defect-free beryllium ion crystals using pulsed laser ablation

Trapped atomic ions find wide applications ranging from precision measurement to quantum information science and quantum computing. Beryllium ions are widely used due to the light mass and convenient atomic structure of beryllium; however, conventional ion loading from thermal ovens exerts undesirable gas loads for a prolonged duration. Here, we demonstrate a method to rapidly produce pure linear chains of beryllium ions with pulsed laser ablation, serving as a starting point for large-scale quantum information processing. Our method is fast compared to thermal ovens, reduces the gas load to only 10 -12 Torr (10 -10 Pa) level, yields a short recovery time of a few seconds, and also eliminates the need for a deep ultraviolet laser for photoionization. We also study the loading dynamics, which show non-Poissonian statistics in the presence of sympathetic cooling. In addition, we apply feedback control to obtain defect-free ion chains with desirable lengths.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

Nonlinear quantum interferometric spectroscopy with entangled photon pairs

Here, we develop closed expressions for a time-resolved photon counting signal induced by an entangled photon pair in an interferometric spectroscopy setup. Superoperator expressions in Liouville-space are derived that can account for relaxation and dephasing induced by coupling to a bath. Interferometric setups mix matter and light variables non-trivially, which complicates their interpretation. We provide an intuitive modular framework for this setup that simplifies its description. Based on the separation between the detection stage and the light–matter interaction processes, we show that the pair entanglement time and the interferometric time-variables control the observed physics time scale. Only a few processes contribute in the limiting case of small entanglement time with respect to the sample response, and specific contributions can be singled out.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Atomic fluctuations in electronic materials revealed by dephasing

The microscopic origin and timescale of the fluctuations of the energies of electronic states has a significant impact on the properties of interest of electronic materials, with implication in fields ranging from photovoltaic devices to quantum information processing. Spectroscopic investigations of coherent dynamics provide a direct measurement of electronic fluctuations. Modern multidimensional spectroscopy techniques allow the mapping of coherent processes along multiple time or frequency axes and thus allow unprecedented discrimination between different sources of electronic dephasing. Exploiting modern abilities in coherence mapping in both amplitude and phase, we unravel dissipative processes of electronic coherences in the model system of CdSe quantum dots (QDs). The method allows the assignment of the nature of the observed coherence as vibrational or electronic. The expected coherence maps are obtained for the coherent longitudinal optical (LO) phonon, which serves as an internal standard and confirms the sensitivity of the technique. Fast dephasing is observed between the first two exciton states, despite their shared electron state and common environment. This result is contrary to predictions of the standard effective mass model for these materials, in which the exciton levels are strongly correlated through a common size dependence. In contrast, the experiment is in agreement with ab initio molecular dynamics of a single QD. Electronic dephasing in these materials is thus dominated by the realistic electronic structure arising from fluctuations at the atomic level rather than static size distribution. The analysis of electronic dephasing thereby uniquely enables the study of electronic fluctuations in complex materials.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Path integral approach to the photoionization of one active electron atom by a pulsed Fock state: Fluctuations contribution

We model in a fully quantum mechanical way the dynamics of an atom of one optically active electron interacting with a pulsed Fock state which is linearly polarized. We use path integral methods. We derive the system's sign solved propagator which gives full information on its dynamics. We apply our method to the ionization of atomic hydrogen by a one-photon pulsed Fock state and study the contribution of the electromagnetic fluctuations.

74 ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR PHYSICS↗