A collaboration of scientists from Italy, Germany, and France is working on the development of a quantum computer utilizing glass photonic chips.
While quantum computers promise to significantly outperform traditional ones, numerous challenges arise in the path to creating practical and effective devices. The initiative, led by the Polytechnic University of Milan, brings together a team of researchers from leading research centers and small to medium-sized enterprises in France, Italy, and Germany, aiming to enhance quantum characteristics using glass properties.
The researchers are employing glass chips developed by Ephos to create a photonic quantum computer. These chips process and transmit information using light. They support up to 200 reconfigurable optical modes, enabling dynamic control of light movement within the chip.
"It is essential to utilize materials that allow light to pass through. This is a challenging task, as it requires confining light while avoiding its absorption. If light is absorbed, it cannot propagate," explains Giulia Acconcia from the Polytechnic University of Milan.
The scientists aim to generate individual photons and direct them through glass circuits, which may ultimately address pressing issues such as the development of more efficient batteries, new medications, and the mysteries of the universe. The technology of laser printing on glass is particularly promising. During this process, light particles are generated, which travel through fiber optics to the chip. Everything is made of glass, minimizing the risk of photon deviation along the way.
Currently, the German company Pixel Photonics is working on improving ultra-sensitive detectors to register each photon. At the same time, Schott AG is producing and supplying high-quality glass substrates.
The research team, led by Giulia Acconcia, is developing high-performance electronics to control the system. Meanwhile, specialists from the University of La Sapienza's experimental quantum optics department are involved in generating single photons.
The Unified Fund of France is creating open-source software for quantum computing. Teams from the National Center for Scientific Research and the University of Montpellier are modeling advanced energy storage solutions, which are critical for future quantum technology programs.
The QLASS researchers have a shared goal: to create a functioning photonic quantum device at the University of La Sapienza by 2026. Upon completion of the project, the software developed at the University of Montpellier and the Unified Fund will allow for testing this device.
The first task of the new quantum computer will be to develop more advanced lithium-ion batteries. By utilizing variational quantum algorithms—specific instructions that help quantum machines solve problems more efficiently—quantum computing can model battery chemistry, accelerate the search for new materials, and even enhance monitoring systems.
While scientists understand the laws governing atoms and compounds, tracking their interactions in real-time is incredibly complex and beyond the capabilities of current silicon computers. Researchers expect that quantum computers will help expedite the development of new materials for batteries and pharmaceuticals.
The findings of this research have been published in Horizon Magazine.
Source: ZMEScience