Novel Semiconductor Lasers for the Industrial Quantum Leap

Project Information

SEMIQLEAP

Grant agreement ID: 101166330

DOI

10.3030/101166330

Project closed

EC signature date 5 April 2024

Start date 1 May 2024

End date 30 April 2026

Funded under

• The European Innovation Council (EIC)

Total cost

€ 3 464 911,25

EU contribution

€ 2 425 437,88

Coordinated by

VEXLUM OY
Finland

Periodic Reporting for period 2 - SEMIQLEAP (Novel Semiconductor Lasers for the Industrial Quantum Leap)

Reporting period: 2025-05-01 to 2026-04-30

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

Quantum technologies are rapidly evolving, with increasing demand for compact, powerful, and cost-efficient laser systems tailored for quantum computers and ultra-precise optical atomic clocks. SEMIQLEAP’s primary objective is to industrialize a novel laser platform based on the vertical-external-cavity surface-emitting laser (VECSEL) architecture. The project focused on transforming Vexlum’s unique VECSEL-based technology from early-stage innovation into a scalable and robust solution ready for high-volume quantum system integration.
To achieve this, SEMIQLEAP is advancing along three key technological avenues:
1. Scaling semiconductor gain chip fabrication to Technology Readiness Level 8 (TRL 8) and enabling high-volume production.
2. Establishing automated characterization and benchmarking processes for semiconductor quality assurance and standardization.
3. Developing automated assembly processes for OEM laser modules to meet the stringent requirements of industrial customers, including extended lifetime and easy serviceability.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

The project has made significant progress across all development fronts. Major advances were achieved in gain chip performance, particularly in the 700–800 nm wavelength range, where output power reached the 10W level and lifetime improve more than 100-fold; both critical goals for trapped ion and neutral atom quantum applications as well as semiconductor metrology. Concurrently, key automation processes have been implemented in wafer production and chip characterization, enhancing manufacturing efficiency and quality control.
In terms of system integration, Vexlum developed and launched a new OEM laser platform VXL® with integrated smart and low-noise electronics, showcasing compact form factor and high-power capability (see details at https://vexlum.com/technology). In addition, the team prototyped and pre-marketed the next even smaller VXS® product line with automated assembly for volume applications.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

By addressing the technical bottlenecks of industrial quantum technology deployment, SEMIQLEAP is positioning Europe as a leader in next-generation semiconductor laser systems. The project supports scalable quantum hardware development, enhances the competitiveness of European industry, and directly contributes to the strategic objective of technological sovereignty in quantum technologies.