Researchers at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) have made significant advancements in the realm of quantum technology, particularly in the manipulation of light for applications in quantum computing. Their findings, published in several prominent journals including Nature Photonics, Physical Review Letters, and Nature Communications, highlight the potential for these innovations to reshape various business practices by enhancing computational efficiency and capabilities.
Prof. Gao Weibo, leading a team from NTU's School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering and School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, has unveiled a breakthrough in photon emitters—devices that release single photons on demand. This advancement is critical for the functionality of quantum technologies, which rely heavily on the manipulation of light. The team achieved a quantum efficiency of 76.4% on average, with some emitters exceeding 90%, nearing the ideal 100% efficiency. This level of performance had never been previously observed in two-dimensional materials, showcasing a substantial leap forward in the capabilities of photon emitters.
The technology involves overlaying a two-dimensional layer of tungsten diselenide on an array of gold pillars, generating excitons and subsequently photons through a process enhanced by applying an electric field to separate charge pairs. Prof. Gao noted, "Our on-demand quantum emitter is desirable for many applications, including quantum communications and scalable optical quantum computation." This innovation lays the groundwork for expanded quantum communications and computing, which are anticipated to shape future business operations.
Additionally, another groundbreaking study co-led by Prof. Zhang Baile has addressed the issue of backscattering in photonic chips, which can hinder the efficiency of light processing. By developing a new strategy that incorporates a photonic Chern insulator, the team has successfully demonstrated the ability to slow down light without degradation in quality, enabling the effective handling of quantum information. This advancement is crucial for creating reliable quantum memory systems.
In a parallel exploration into light-matter interaction, researchers observed ultra-strong coupling between excitons in tungsten disulfide and surface plasmons at room temperature, a significant finding that could lead to less energy-intensive quantum computing systems. Prof. Wang Qi Jie elaborated, "Strong and stable light-matter interactions at room temperature open the door to quantum computing applications at ambient temperatures, reducing the stringent cooling requirements for quantum computers." This development suggests a pathway for businesses to harness quantum technologies without the substantial infrastructure costs typically associated with cryogenic systems.
Moreover, NTU scientists have pioneered a quantum processing chip capable of utilising photons to simulate the chemical properties of molecules, which could revolutionise drug discovery processes. Under the guidance of Prof. Kwek Leong Chuan, this approach leverages a technique known as scattershot boson sampling to deduce vibronic spectra. The ability to simulate complex molecules with a compact, room-temperature operating chip might well expedite pharmaceutical research and development efforts, offering businesses in the healthcare sector novel tools for rapid innovation.
In summary, NTU's innovative research into quantum technologies underscores the potential transformations that artificial intelligence and automation could bring to businesses. By enhancing computational efficiencies and enabling new applications in quantum communication, memory systems, and drug discovery, these advancements pave the way for a future where business practices can leverage the formidable capabilities of quantum computing technologies.
Source: Noah Wire Services