Novel Semiconductor Lasers for the Industrial Quantum Leap

Información del proyecto

SEMIQLEAP

Identificador del acuerdo de subvención: 101166330

DOI

10.3030/101166330

Proyecto cerrado

Fecha de la firma de la CE 5 Abril 2024

Fecha de inicio 1 Mayo 2024

Fecha de finalización 30 Abril 2026

Financiado con arreglo a

• The European Innovation Council (EIC)

Coste total

€ 3 464 911,25

Aportación de la UE

€ 2 425 437,88

Coordinado por

VEXLUM OY
Finland

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

Período documentado: 2025-05-01 hasta 2026-04-30

Resumen del contexto y de los objetivos generales del proyecto

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.

Trabajo realizado desde el comienzo del proyecto hasta el final del período abarcado por el informe y los principales resultados hasta la fecha

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.

Avances que van más allá del estado de la técnica e impacto potencial esperado (incluida la repercusión socioeconómica y las implicaciones sociales más amplias del proyecto hasta la fecha)

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.