Quantum technologies

The second quantum revolution heralds a paradigm shift in the fields of sensor technology, metrology, and computing. After the first applications of quantum mechanical effects (lasers, transistors, and others) have already brought fundamental changes to large parts of society, the generation, manipulation, and detection of quantum states in complex systems will enable completely new types of applications. These include high-precision measuring instruments (atomic clocks, quantum magnetic field measuring devices, etc.), encryption using quantum entanglement (especially quantum key distribution), and quantum information processing (quantum computers).

Photons represent a special case for these applications. They can serve both as information units (qubits for photonic quantum computers) and as information mediators in networks between nodes and in the readout of other quantum computers (neutral atom QC, ion trap QC). This takes advantage of their low interaction with the environment and the resulting long coherence times. They thus offer added value for a wide range of quantum applications.

The properties of photons can be specifically modified so that light is available in specific wavelengths, with controlled polarization and precise time resolution. After generating individual photons, they can be entangled, manipulated, and filtered for evaluation and directed to detectors. Single-photon detectors offer the possibility of detecting these individual quanta with high temporal and spatial resolution and therefore serve as a fundamental element for quantum applications. Mass-produced products are used for initial demonstrators. Integrated single-photon detectors are essential to ensure the cost-efficiency and scalability of future sensors and quantum computers. Fraunhofer IMS offers unique advantages in this regard by implementing forward-looking quantum solutions with industry-ready technologies for integrated detection and photonics.

At Fraunhofer IMS, we offer design and manufacturing capabilities for the detection of individual photons in arrangements ranging from single pixels to large detection arrays. This results in robust single-photon detectors (SPAD: Single Photon Avalanche Diode) with outstanding properties, such as high photon detection efficiency (PDE), low intrinsic noise (DCR / dark count rate), which does not require cooling, and high adaptability to enable new applications.

By embedding them in photonic integrated circuits (PICs), they can be mechanically and thermally stabilized, expanded with additional functionalities, and individually addressed. These properties make SPADs the ideal detector units for enabling the next groundbreaking development with easy integration into your systems.