Quantum ELecTronics in silIcon Carbide (QELTIC)

Unbreakable codes, teleportation of information and ultra-fast computing will soon cease to be figments of science fiction literature thanks to the ongoing development of quantum technologies. Quantum mechanics is a branch of Physics that has allowed us to understand how nature works at the atomic and sub-atomic scales. This wealth of knowledge has already enabled successful modern technologies, such as smartphones, DVD players and MRI scanners.

However, even more transformative quantum-based technologies are on the horizon and could lead to enhanced sensors, powerful quantum computers and un-hackable communication systems. These are considered imminent realities, so much so that governments and major ICT corporations are copiously investing to benefit from their future commercialisation.

Some quantum devices are currently at a stage of development where scientists and engineers are trying to determine in which shape or form they could be more efficiently commercialised. Whenever a new technology is being developed, a choice among possible implementations has to be made. For example, initial videocassette recording systems came simultaneously onto the market in two hardware formats (Betamax and VHS) from competitors Sony and JVC, before VHS eventually became dominant.

Similarly, many materials are presently scrutinised to build the future quantum hardware. For instance, Google and IBM are investing in superconductors, while Intel and Hitachi have a prevalent focus on semiconductors, because they are already widely deployed in the microchip industry. Project QELTIC will investigate quantum effects in silicon carbide (SiC), a semiconductor made of silicon (the material used for most modern electronics) and carbon (the cornerstone element for life on Earth).

SiC is an extremely promising material because it hosts quantum effects that can be exploited to build a range of useful devices ranging from sensitive environmental sensors (temperature, radiation, magnetic field etc.) to secure communication devices and enhanced computing apparatuses. Crucially, SiC quantum technology could leverage existing industrial protocols and processes, as opposed to other materials that would require significant investments and additional infrastructure.

The main hurdle to advance this technology is the realisation of nanometre size electronic components that allow one to deterministically engineer and control quantum effects. This is important because it would lay the foundation for scaling up to large integrated systems that can perform complex tasks, such as detection, computation and communication.

QELTIC aims to develop the underpinning technology to realise the first generation of quantum nano-devices in SiC. This research will cut through a diverse range of expertise by promoting a synthesis between quantum optics, quantum electronics and semiconductor device engineering. This will open a new direction in the field that has, until now, addressed these aspects separately.

This project is one of discovery science with clear and realistic technological benefits. In order to enhance the commercial relevance of QELTIC's findings, the support of a diverse network of business partners has been secured. For example, ICT giants of the calibre of Hitachi and British Telecom will contribute towards the development of the technology and could act as early adopters.

The National Physical Laboratory will support the project with provision of specialised laboratory equipment. The University of Strathclyde is ideally positioned to host this project, given advanced and expanding research activities in the quantum arena, its key role in the implementation of the National Quantum Technology Programme, and its strong ties with the nascent quantum-related industrial sector.