Laser focus on bringing quantum applications to market
Quantum technology – which harnesses the unique properties of subatomic particles to, for example, process information – is slowly emerging from the research lab and into practical, commercial deployments. Key sectors of potential include quantum computing and quantum sensing (providing high-precision positioning and timing), as well as industrial applications such as carrying out chemical simulations to discover new materials and molecules. “Pairing quantum processing units with classical supercomputers can tackle highly complex optimisation and simulation tasks,” explains SEMIQLEAP(opens in new window) project coordinator Jussi-Pekka Penttinen from Vexlum(opens in new window) in Finland.
Lasers for industrial quantum systems
Lasers are a critical component of quantum technology, essential for manipulating, measuring and cooling quantum systems (among other applications). These are not ‘ordinary’ lasers, however – quantum-specific lasers require ultra-high wavelength stability and incredibly low optical noise to function properly without disrupting delicate quantum coherence. Furthermore, quantum laser systems are continually shrinking. Finnish firm Vexlum is at the cutting edge of this development. Its semiconductor laser has been designed to deliver the specific wavelengths and high-power levels that atom- and ion-based quantum systems require, but in a far more compact and manageable form than other older laser approaches. “This technology has been proven in key quantum experiments,” says Penttinen. “However, industrial quantum systems need lasers that can be produced in volume, to consistent standards, with the operational lifetime and reliability that a commercial product demands. The disruptive next step therefore is turning this into a robust, manufacturable product.”
European market for critical laser components
This was the goal of the SEMIQLEAP project, supported by the European Innovation Council(opens in new window). “The gap between a proven lab device and a scalable industrial one is exactly what SEMIQLEAP was funded to close,” notes Penttinen. “The wider goal was to give Europe a home-grown supply of critical laser components that the quantum industry will depend on.” A key part of the project involved redesigning a whole production chain from developing the semiconductor wafer through to the finished gain chip and a final laser system. The aim was to develop compact industrial lasers while making the whole production chain more robust and resilient. “In practice, that meant three things: scaling gain-chip fabrication towards high-volume production, building automated characterisation and benchmarking so every chip meets a consistent standard, and integrating all of this into compact deployable laser systems,” explains Penttinen.
Automated wafer production and chip characterisation
Advances in both automated wafer production and chip characterisation have been achieved, improving both efficiency and quality control. “We were able to validate a new compact, high-power laser platform (our VXL line) with embedded electronics, and to prototype the even smaller next-generation laser system,” adds Penttinen. The project therefore represents a critical milestone in ensuring that Vexlum can turn its validated laser platform into volume-ready products. “The VXL line is now a validated platform designed for scalable deployment inside industrial quantum systems – quantum computers and optical atomic clocks in particular,” says Penttinen. “We will continue to push forward to ensure that we can supply these lasers at the volumes the quantum industry will need as it scales up.”
