The path to quantum internet: constructing efficient sources of quantum light via Raman effect

• Grant number: 21/06774-4
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants
• Duration: January 01, 2022 - December 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Physics - General Physics
• Convênio/Acordo: MCTI/MC
• Principal Investigator: Gabriel Horacio Aguilar
• Grantee: Gabriel Horacio Aguilar
• Host Institution: Instituto de Física. Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ). Ministério da Educação (Brasil)
• Associated researchers: Benjamin Fragneaud ; Marcelo Paleologo Elefteriadis de Franca Santos

Abstract

Quantum Physics is one of the most successful theories in the history of mankind. Its theoretical predictions of novel phenomena at the microscopic scale agree extremely well with experimental results, which led to numerous technological applications of great impact on society. The first quantum technologies appeared in the middle of the 20th century, when Quantum Physics-based devices such as the laser and the transistor entered into mainstream technology. Currently, we are at the dawn of a new age of quantum technology. Two of the most paradigmatic examples are quantum cryptography systems and quantum internet, which are intended to guarantee secure communication between users. One of the main challenges for the proper working of these technologies is the creation of efficient sources of single photons and of entangled photon pairs. There are currently several plataforms available to produce these sources, however none of them is yet satisfactory. Very recent results show that photons emerging from the process of Raman scattering could be exploited for this end. In this project, I will experimentally investigate the use of Raman processes to create sources of single and entangled photons. Given that Raman photons have been observed in simple materials such as alcohol or distilled water, we could produce extremely inexpensive photon sources. Moreover, the samples where the Raman effect happends will be placed inside resonant optical cavities, which will be optimized to obtain the maximum possible brightness via the Purcell effect. We expect to obtain sources of quantum light compatible with future quantum repeaters and global quantum internet. (AU)