Nanofabrication of Optical Semiconductor Devices for use in Quantum Sensors
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Nottingham
Department Name: Sch of Physics & Astronomy
Abstract
This PhD project is aimed at developing photonic components adapted for specific quantum sensor systems. Photonic devices based on semiconductor waveguides will be designed and nanofabricated for use in the optical magnetometry sensors using atomic sources of thermal Rubidium atoms (wavelength 780 nm) in magneto-encephalography measurements and for optical switches necessary for a compact Bose-Einstein Condensate microscope based on cold atoms of Potassium (wavelength either 767 nm or 770 nm). This will develop expertise in semiconductor materials characterisation and nanofabrication. Access to optical simulation software will allow the design of suitable epitaxial structures and multimode interference devices. Following successful optical insertion loss measurements of bare die, samples will be mounted in commercial opto-electronic packages. The devices will then be used in the atomic sensor and the magnetic detection performance compared with existing data. The project involves the full transformation of semiconductor material to a systems component and provides sound expertise in future innovation in UK Quantum Technologies.
Organisations
| Description | We have designed and tested an optical switch for manipulating light in the wavelength range 890-904nm. We have also designed and fabricated devices which are intended to work at 767nm and 780nm. The performance of these devices at various wavelengths is currently being investigated. |
| Exploitation Route | These switching devices would be useful for improving the portability of quantum sensors which involve spectroscopy of rubidium, caesium and potassium. Once the bare devices have been fully characterised, an appropriate photonics package may be designed to allow the switches to be integrated into existing quantum sensing experiments. The ultimate goal is to reduce the size, weight and power (SWaP) of quantum sensors. The integrated photonic switches investigated in this project would represent a step forward in miniaturising bulk optical components currently used in these sensors. This will push forward the development of these sensors into more portable and compact units, and drive down the cost of manufacturing. Quantum sensors have their use in a number of different sectors, so research and development of enabling technologies is a fundamental aspect in their commercialisation. |
| Sectors | Aerospace, Defence and Marine,Agriculture, Food and Drink,Construction,Electronics,Energy,Environment,Healthcare,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology,Transport |
| Description | Pre-A-level Quantum Workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | The workshop took place in the summer of 2018 and was aimed at students leaving secondary school, preparing for the start of their a-levels. The intention of the workshop was to engage and educate the students about quantum technologies and some of the fundamental physics which govern them. The students took part in three separate mini experiments which demonstrated some common quantum mechanical phenomena. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |