Physicists at the University of Bath in the UK have developed a new generation of special optical fibers to meet the data transmission challenges that will arise in the future era of quantum computing. This achievement is expected to promote the expansion of large-scale quantum networks. The research results were published in the latest issue of Applied Physics Letters Quantum.

Bright light is transmitted through a newly designed optical fiber. Image credit: Cameron McGarry/University of Bath, UK

Quantum technology is expected to enable people to solve complex logic problems and develop new drugs with unprecedented computing power. At the same time, quantum technology can also bring more secure communications by providing unbreakable encryption technology. However, due to the solid core of optical fiber, today's wired network that transmits information around the world is not suitable for future quantum communications.

The wavelength of light transmitted by traditional optical fibers is determined by the loss of quartz glass. These wavelengths are incompatible with the operating wavelengths of single-photon sources, quantum bits, and active optical components required for optical quantum technology. Therefore, researchers must develop corresponding supporting equipment to ensure that they can play a role in future quantum networks.

This time, researchers at the University of Bath analyzed the challenges associated with the quantum Internet from the perspective of optical fiber technology and proposed a series of solutions to achieve robust, large-scale quantum network scalability, including optical fibers for long-distance communications and special optical fibers that allow quantum repeaters. The newly manufactured special optical fiber is different from standard telecommunications optical fibers. It has a microstructured core consisting of complex air cavity patterns distributed along the entire length of the optical fiber. These patterns allow people to manipulate the properties of light inside the optical fiber, create entangled photon pairs, change the color of photons, and even capture single atoms inside the optical fiber.

The research team said that special optical fibers can realize quantum computing in the node itself by acting as entangled single photon sources, quantum wavelength converters, low-loss switches or quantum memory containers. At the same time, special optical fibers can be directly integrated into the network, greatly extending the operable distance.

The new optical fiber can also generate more exotic quantum states of light, which can be used in quantum computing, precision sensing and information encryption, which also lays the foundation for the large-scale application of quantum computers in the future.