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At least 91 records · Page 5
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2024

Electron beam characterization via quantum coherent optical magnetometry

We present a quantum optics-based detection method for determining the position and current of an electron beam. As electrons pass through a dilute vapor of rubidium atoms, their magnetic field perturbs the atomic spin's quantum state and causes polarization rotation of a laser resonant with an optical transition of the atoms. By measuring the polarization rotation angle across the laser beam, we recreate a 2D projection of the magnetic field and use it to determine the e-beam position, size, and total current. We tested this method for an e-beam with currents ranging from 30 to 110 μA. Our approach is insensitive to electron kinetic energy, and we confirmed that experimentally between 10 and 20 keV. In conclusion, this technique offers a unique platform for noninvasive characterization of charged particle beams used in accelerators for particle and nuclear physics research.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2024

Single-mode squeezed-light generation and tomography with an integrated optical parametric oscillator

Quantum optical technologies promise advances in sensing, computing, and communication. A key resource is squeezed light, where quantum noise is redistributed between optical quadratures. We introduce a monolithic, chip-scale platform that exploits the χ (2) nonlinearity of a thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) resonator device to efficiently generate squeezed states of light. Our system integrates all essential components—except for the laser and two detectors—on a single chip with an area of one square centimeter, reducing the size, operational complexity, and power consumption associated with conventional setups. Using the balanced homodyne measurement subsystem that we implemented on the same chip, we measure a squeezing of 0.55 decibels and an anti-squeezing of 1.55 decibels. We use 20 milliwatts of input power to generate the parametric oscillator pump field by using second harmonic generation on the same chip. Our work represents a step toward compact and efficient quantum optical systems posed to leverage the rapid advances in integrated nonlinear and quantum photonics.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗
DOE OSTI2020

Quantum nondemolition photon counting with a hybrid electromechanical probe

Quantum nondemolition (QND) measurements of photons is a much pursued endeavor in the field of quantum optics and quantum information processing. Here, we propose a hybrid optoelectromechanical platform that integrates a cavity system with a hybrid electromechanical probe for QND photon counting. Building upon a mechanical-mode-mediated nonperturbative electro-optical dispersive coupling, our protocol performs the QND photon counting measurement by means of the current-voltage characteristics of the probe. In particular, we show that the peak voltage shift of the differential conductance is linearly dependent on the photon occupation number, thus providing a sensitive measure of the photon number, especially in the strong optomechanical coupling regime. Here, given that our proposed hybrid system is compatible with state-of-the-art experimental techniques, we discuss its implementations and anticipate applications in quantum optics and polariton physics.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗
DOE OSTI2021

Fluctuation–dissipation relation for a quantum Brownian oscillator in a parametrically squeezed thermal field

In this paper we study the nonequilibrium evolution of a quantum Brownian oscillator, modeling the internal degree of freedom of a harmonic atom or an Unruh–DeWitt detector, coupled to a nonequilibrium and nonstationary quantum field bath and inquire whether a fluctuation–dissipation relation (FDR) can exist after/if it approaches equilibration. This is a nontrivial issue because a squeezed field bath cannot reach equilibration and yet, as this work shows, the system oscillator indeed can, which is a necessary condition for FDRs. We discuss three different settings: (A) The bath field essentially remains in a squeezed thermal state throughout, whose squeeze parameter is a mode- and time-independent constant. This situation is often encountered in quantum optics and quantum thermodynamics. (B) The bath field is initially in a thermal state, but is subjected to a parametric process leading to mode- and time-dependent squeezing. This scenario is encountered in cosmology and dynamical Casimir effects. The squeezing in the bath in both types of processes will affect the oscillator’s nonequilibrium evolution. We show that at late times it approaches equilibration and this stationarity condition warrants the existence of a FDR. The trait of squeezing is marked by the oscillator’s effective equilibrium temperature, and the proportionality factor in the FDR is only related to the stationary component of the noise kernel of the bath field. Setting (C) is more subtle: A finite system–bath coupling strength can set the oscillator in a squeezed state even though the bath field is stationary and does not engage in any parametric process. The squeezing of the system in this case is in general time-dependent but becomes constant when the internal dynamics is fully relaxed. We begin with comments on the broad range of physical processes involving squeezed thermal baths and end with some remarks on the significance of FDRs in capturing the essence of quantum backreaction in nonequilibrium and stochastic systems.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗
DOE OSTI2026

A Compact Monolithic Electro-Optic Package for Quantum Microwave-to-Optical Transduction

We present a novel quantum transduction package that integrates a macroscopic electro-optic crystal into a compact, monolithic assembly designed for superconducting quantum processors. The device provides an efficient and scalable interface between microwave and optical domains while preserving cryogenic compatibility. We performed full-wave and quantum dynamical simulations to assess the performance of the hybrid system, focusing on the interaction between a transmon-based microwave cavity and the crystal’s and cavity low-frequency microwave mode. The transmon operates both as an ancilla for the QPU and as a nonlinear element enabling four-wave mixing between cavity and electro-optic crystal microwave fields. Our results indicate that this architecture can coherently mediate quantum information transfer from the cavity to the electro-optic mode, offering a promising platform for on-chip quantum transduction within superconducting quantum networks.

Reineri, Alessandro [Fermilab] (ORCID:000000016175↗
DOE OSTI2026

A Compact Monolithic Electro-Optic Package for Quantum Microwave-to-Optical Transduction

We present a novel quantum transduction package that integrates a macroscopic electro-optic crystal into a compact, monolithic assembly designed for superconducting quantum processors. The device provides an efficient and scalable interface between microwave and optical domains while preserving cryogenic compatibility. We performed full-wave and quantum dynamical simulations to assess the performance of the hybrid system, focusing on the interaction between a transmon-based microwave cavity and the crystal’s and cavity low-frequency microwave mode. The transmon operates both as an ancilla for the QPU and as a nonlinear element enabling four-wave mixing between cavity and electro-optic crystal microwave fields. Our results indicate that this architecture can coherently mediate quantum information transfer from the cavity to the electro-optic mode, offering a promising platform for on-chip quantum transduction within superconducting quantum networks.

Reineri, Alessandro [Fermilab] (ORCID:000000016175↗
NASA NTRS2000

Sixth International Conference on Squeezed States and Uncertainty Relations

These proceedings contain contributions from about 200 participants to the 6th International Conference on Squeezed States and Uncertainty Relations (ICSSUR'99) held in Naples May 24-29, 1999, and organized jointly by the University of Naples "Federico II," the University of Maryland at College Park, and the Lebedev Institute, Moscow. This was the sixth of a series of very successful meetings started in 1990 at the College Park Campus of the University of Maryland. The other meetings in the series were held in Moscow (1992), Baltimore (1993), Taiyuan P.R.C. (1995) and Balatonfuered, Hungary (1997). The present one was held at the campus Monte Sant'Angelo of the University "Federico II" of Naples. The meeting sought to provide a forum for updating and reviewing a wide range of quantum optics disciplines, including device developments and applications, and related areas of quantum measurements and quantum noise. Over the years, the ICSSUR Conference evolved from a meeting on quantum measurement sector of quantum optics, to a wide range of quantum optics themes, including multifacet aspects of generation, measurement, and applications of nonclassical light (squeezed and Schrodinger cat radiation fields, etc.), and encompassing several related areas, ranging from quantum measurement to quantum noise. ICSSUR'99 brought together about 250 people active in the field of quantum optics, with special emphasis on nonclassical light sources and related areas. The Conference was organized in 8 Sections: Squeezed states and uncertainty relations; Harmonic oscillators and squeeze transformations; Methods of quantum interference and correlations; Quantum measurements; Generation and characterisation of non-classical light; Quantum noise; Quantum communication and information; and Quantum-like systems.

Han, D.↗
DOE OSTI2023

From Inside Out: How the Buried Interface, Shell Defects, and Surface Chemistry Conspire to Determine Optical Performance in Nonblinking Giant Quantum Dots

“Giant” or core/thick‐shell quantum dots (gQDs) are an important class of solid‐state quantum emitter characterized by strongly suppressed blinking and photobleaching under ambient conditions, and reduced nonradiative Auger processes. Together, these qualities provide distinguishing and useful functionality as single‐ and ensemble‐photon sources. For many applications, operation at elevated temperatures and under intense photon flux is desired, but performance is strongly dependent on the synthetic method employed for thick‐shell growth. Here, a comprehensive analysis of gQD structural properties “from the inside out” as a function of shell‐growth method is reported: successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) and high‐temperature continuous injection (HT‐CI), or sequential combinations of the two. Key correlations across synthesis methods, structural features (interfacial alloying, stacking‐fault density and surface‐ligand identity), and performance metrics (quantum yield, single‐gQD photoluminescence under thermal/photo stress, charging behavior and quantum‐optical properties) are identified. Surprisingly, it is found that interfacial alloying is the strongest indicator of gQD stability under stress, but this parameter is not the determining factor for Auger suppression. Furthermore, quantum yield is strongly influenced by surface chemistry and can approach unity even in the case of high shell‐defect density, while introduction of zinc‐blende stacking faults increases the likelihood that a gQD exhibits charged‐state emission.

77 NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY↗
DOE OSTI2025

Development Of Non-Invasive Beam Diagnostics By Quantum Optics-Based Detection

We report our effort and latest progress developing diagnostics using quantum optics-based detection method for determining the spatial properties and current of electron beams. As electrons pass through a dilute vapor of rubidium atoms, their magnetic field perturb the atomic spin’s quantum state and causes polarization rotation of a laser resonant with an optical transition of the atoms. By measuring the polarization rotation angle across the laser beam, we recreate a 2D projection of the magnetic field and use it to determine the e-beam position, size and total current. We tested this method for an e-beam with currents ranging from 30 to 110 µA. Our study shows this approach is insensitive to electron kinetic energy, and is initially verified experimentally between 10 to 20 keV. A different approach was also performed with highly excited rubidium atoms in Rydberg states through a coherent two photon process. We use this detection scheme to measure the electric field generated by a

Zhang, S. [Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator F↗
DOE OSTI2020

Unconventional Applications of Superconducting Nanowire Single Photon Detectors

Superconducting nanowire single photon detectors are becoming a dominant technology in quantum optics and quantum communication, primarily because of their low timing jitter and capability to detect individual low-energy photons with high quantum efficiencies. However, other desirable characteristics, such as high detection rates, operation in cryogenic and high magnetic field environments, or high-efficiency detection of charged particles, are underrepresented in literature, potentially leading to a lack of interest in other fields that might benefit from this technology. We review the progress in use of superconducting nanowire technology in photon and particle detection outside of the usual areas of physics, with emphasis on the potential use in ongoing and future experiments in nuclear and high energy physics.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
NASA NTRS1996

Fourth International Conference on Squeezed States and Uncertainty Relations

The fourth International Conference on Squeezed States and Uncertainty Relations was held at Shanxi University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China, on June 5 - 9, 1995. This conference was jointly organized by Shanxi University, the University of Maryland (U.S.A.), and the Lebedev Physical Institute (Russia). The first meeting of this series was called the Workshop on Squeezed States and Uncertainty Relations, and was held in 1991 at College Park, Maryland. The second and third meetings in this series were hosted in 1992 by the Lebedev Institute in Moscow, and in 1993 by the University of Maryland Baltimore County, respectively. The scientific purpose of this series was initially to discuss squeezed states of light, but in recent years, the scope is becoming broad enough to include studies of uncertainty relations and squeeze transformations in all branches of physics, including, of course, quantum optics and foundations of quantum mechanics. Quantum optics will continue playing the pivotal role in the future, but the future meetings will include all branches of physics where squeeze transformations are basic transformation. This transition took place at the fourth meeting of this series held at Shanxi University in 1995. The fifth meeting in this series will be held in Budapest (Hungary) in 1997, and the principal organizer will be Jozsef Janszky of the Laboratory of Crystal Physics, P.O. Box 132, H-1052. Budapest, Hungary.

Han, D.↗
NASA NTRS1998

Fifth International Conference on Squeezed States and Uncertainty Relations

The Fifth International Conference on Squeezed States and Uncertainty Relations was held at Balatonfured, Hungary, on 27-31 May 1997. This series was initiated in 1991 at the College Park Campus of the University of Maryland as the Workshop on Squeezed States and Uncertainty Relations. The scientific purpose of this series was to discuss squeezed states of light, but in recent years the scope is becoming broad enough to include studies of uncertainty relations and squeeze transformations in all branches of physics including quantum optics and foundations of quantum mechanics. Quantum optics will continue playing the pivotal role in the future, but the future meetings will include all branches of physics where squeeze transformations are basic. As the meeting attracted more participants and started covering more diversified subjects, the fourth meeting was called an international conference. The Fourth International Conference on Squeezed States and Uncertainty Relations was held in 1995 was hosted by Shanxi University in Taiyuan, China. The fifth meeting of this series, which was held at Balatonfured, Hungary, was also supported by the IUPAP. In 1999, the Sixth International Conference will be hosted by the University of Naples in 1999. The meeting will take place in Ravello near Naples.

Han, D.↗
DOE OSTI2022

High-efficiency second harmonic generation of blue light on thin-film lithium niobate

The strength of interactions between photons in a χ (2) nonlinear optical waveguide increases at shorter wavelengths. These larger interactions enable coherent spectral translation and light generation at a lower power, over a broader bandwidth, and in a smaller device: all of which open the door to new technologies spanning fields from classical to quantum optics. Stronger interactions may also grant access to new regimes of quantum optics to be explored at the few-photon level. One promising platform that could enable these advances is thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN), due to its broad optical transparency window and possibility for quasi-phase matching and dispersion engineering. In this Letter, we demonstrate second harmonic generation of blue light on an integrated thin-film lithium niobate waveguide and observe a conversion efficiency of η 0 = 33, 000%/W- cm 2 , significantly exceeding previous demonstrations.

Park, Taewon↗
DOE OSTI2023

Splitting phonons: Building a platform for linear mechanical quantum computing

Linear optical quantum computing provides a desirable approach to quantum computing, with only a short list of required computational elements. The similarity between photons and phonons points to the interesting potential for linear mechanical quantum computing using phonons in place of photons. Although single-phonon sources and detectors have been demonstrated, a phononic beam splitter element remains an outstanding requirement. Here we demonstrate such an element, using two superconducting qubits to fully characterize a beam splitter with single phonons. We further use the beam splitter to demonstrate two-phonon interference, a requirement for two-qubit gates in linear computing. In conclusion, this advances a new solid-state system for implementing linear quantum computing, further providing straightforward conversion between itinerant phonons and superconducting qubits.

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗
DOE OSTI2022

Methods for microwave characterization of electro-optic crystals for quantum transduction

Microwave-optic quantum transducers are essential devices to develop distributed quantum networks and implement related quantum communication protocols. Three dimensional high-coherence time microwave cavities embedded with electro-optic nonlinear dielectric materials provide promising platforms to boost the efficiency of the microwave-optic frequency conversion. However, so far, the properties for such dielectric crystals operating at milli-Kelvin cryogenic temperatures have not been well understood. Here, we propose a scheme to precisely measure and benchmark the dielectric constant and analyze the dissipation mechanisms of electro-optic materials, such as Lithium Niobate, at the quantum threshold. We will use Fermilab’s three dimensional superconducting cavities with long coherence time. The proposed method of microwave characterization lays the foundations for engineering quantum transduction devices and quantum sensors with high conversion efficiency and fidelity.

Zorzetti, Silvia↗
NASA NTRS2007

Wide-Band, High-Quantum-Efficiency Photodetector

A design has been proposed for a photodetector that would exhibit a high quantum efficiency (as much as 90 percent) over a wide wavelength band, which would typically be centered at a wavelength of 1.55 m. This and similar photodetectors would afford a capability for detecting single photons - a capability that is needed for research in quantum optics as well as for the practical development of secure optical communication systems for distribution of quantum cryptographic keys. The proposed photodetector would be of the hot-electron, phonon-cooled, thin-film superconductor type. The superconducting film in this device would be a meandering strip of niobium nitride. In the proposed photodetector, the quantum efficiency would be increased through incorporation of optiA design has been proposed for a photodetector that would exhibit a high quantum efficiency (as much as 90 percent) over a wide wavelength band, which would typically be centered at a wavelength of 1.55 m. This and similar photodetectors would afford a capability for detecting single photons - a capability that is needed for research in quantum optics as well as for the practical development of secure optical communication systems for distribution of quantum cryptographic keys. The proposed photodetector would be of the hot-electron, phonon-cooled, thin-film superconductor type. The superconducting film in this device would be a meandering strip of niobium nitride. In the proposed photodetector, the quantum efficiency would be increased through incorporation of opti-

Jackson, Deborah↗