Dr. Giampiero Marchegiani from the Quantum Research Center (QRC) co-authored a paper in Nature Nanotechnology on bipolar thermoelectricity in Josephson junctions. The research demonstrates the generation of electrical current using heat, observing bipolar thermoelectricity where the device generates either positive or negative electrical signals without extra control. Integrating these junctions into a bipolar thermoelectric Josephson engine (BTJE) allowed the generation of up to ~140nW/mm2 of electric power at subkelvin temperatures. Why it matters: This BTJE engine may have applications in superconducting technology, potentially strengthening the UAE's position in quantum technologies.
This article summarizes presentations from an internal Quantum Research Center (QRC) workshop at the Technology Innovation Institute (TII). Topics covered included superconducting quantum computers, quantum coherent networks, quantum simulation, and quantum machine learning. Several presentations also discussed experimental quantum technologies. Why it matters: The workshop highlights TII's ongoing research activities in quantum computing and related technologies, signaling its commitment to advancing the field in the UAE.
Prof. Simon Gröblacher from Delft University of Technology presented a seminar on using mechanical systems in quantum information processing, focusing on their potential as quantum memories and transducers. The seminar highlighted experiments demonstrating non-classical behavior of mechanical motion by coupling a micro-fabricated acoustic resonator to single optical photons. Quantum control over acoustic motion was established, including the generation and readout of single phononic excitations, along with light-matter entanglement. Why it matters: This research advances the use of micro-fabricated acoustic resonators for quantum information processing and fundamental tests of quantum physics.
Researchers from LENS, CNR-INO, the University of Florence, UNAM, RPTU University Kaiserslautern-Landau, and TII Abu Dhabi have observed Shapiro steps in ultracold atoms for the first time. This allows for real-time observation of quantum mechanics and could lead to advanced quantum sensors and simulation. The experiments involved creating vortex-antivortex pairs, resulting in step-like signals, and the findings were published in Science. Why it matters: This breakthrough provides a new method to observe and control quantum coherence, potentially enabling advancements in quantum technologies and simulations within the region.
KAUST startup Quantum Solutions manufactures quantum dots, semiconducting nanoparticles that emit light with controllable energy. These dots are being explored for applications including displays, photodetectors, and solar cells. Quantum dots can enhance the efficiency of silicon solar panels by absorbing infrared light. Why it matters: This highlights the potential of KAUST-incubated startups to contribute to advanced materials science and renewable energy technologies in the region.
KAUST researchers have published a review paper in Science magazine covering memristor technology, comparing it to the original transistor. Dr. Mario Lanza is the lead author of the paper, which summarizes data supporting memristor technology readiness across materials and applications. The paper statistically shows the technical criteria for how memristors function in various configurations. Why it matters: Memristors could become the new switching technology standard, surpassing transistors in speed and operational efficiency, especially as current chip technology reaches its quantum limit in terms of size.
KAUST researchers collaborated with TSMC to review the potential of 2D materials in overcoming silicon limitations for microchips. They find that while 2D materials show promise, performance degrades when using scalable fabrication techniques like chemical vapor deposition. 2D materials have been integrated into some commercial products like sensors, but high-integration-density circuits are still a challenge. Why it matters: This research highlights the ongoing efforts and remaining hurdles in utilizing novel materials to advance semiconductor technology in line with industry roadmaps.
Communications Physics journal has a focus collection on space quantum communications. The collection covers supporting technologies, new quantum protocols, inter-satellite QKD, constellations of satellites, and quantum inspired technologies and protocols for space based communication. Contributions are welcome from October 20, 2020 to April 30, 2021, and accepted papers are published on a rolling basis. Why it matters: Space-based quantum communication is a critical area for developing secure, global quantum networks, and this collection could highlight relevant research for the GCC region as it invests in advanced technologies.