10173888Metasurface Manufacturing for Quantum SensorsClosedFast Start ResponseInnovate UKMesa Quantum UK Limited is developing innovative manufacturing processes for metasurfaces - precisely engineered optical structures with nanoscale features that manipulate light for quantum sensing applications. This project aims to establish UK-based production capabilities for these critical components, which currently represent a significant barrier to affordable quantum sensors. Metasurfaces consist of subwavelength optical elements arranged in patterns that enable precise control of electromagnetic waves. For quantum applications operating at specific atomic transition wavelengths (such as 795nm for rubidium), these structures must have feature sizes of approximately 200nm to effectively manipulate phase, amplitude, and polarization. Current manufacturing relies on electron beam lithography, which provides excellent precision but requires approximately one hour per device, making commercial scaling prohibitively expensive. Our project explores two parallel manufacturing approaches with potential for high-volume production: First, we're adapting silicon carbide (SiC) wafer processing techniques compatible with UK semiconductor infrastructure. SiC offers excellent optical properties at quantum-relevant wavelengths while allowing integration with established manufacturing processes. Second, we're investigating nanoimprint lithography as a replication method that can dramatically increase throughput while maintaining precision. This approach creates a master mold that can then transfer patterns to multiple substrates in parallel. The project will validate these manufacturing techniques by producing metasurfaces that provide critical optical functions for quantum sensors, including polarization control, beam shaping, and wavefront engineering. We'll comprehensively characterize their optical performance and develop integration protocols for incorporating them into quantum sensing platforms. By establishing domestic manufacturing capability for these components, the project will strengthen the UK's position in the quantum technology supply chain. Quantum sensors represent a rapidly growing market with applications spanning navigation, medical diagnostics, infrastructure monitoring, and defense - all areas where the UK aims to develop sovereign capabilities. This work directly supports the UK's National Quantum Technologies Programme by addressing manufacturing challenges that currently limit commercial adoption. The manufacturing approaches developed will have broad applicability across multiple quantum technologies while creating high-value engineering expertise within the UK. Mesa Quantum UK Limited is collaborating with UK partners including the University of Cambridge and UK-based fabrication facilities to ensure the project builds sustainable domestic capabilities in this strategically important technology area.