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arXiv:2001.10625 · Journal of Optics

Quantum random number generation using a hexagonal boron nitride single photon emitter

Simon White, Friederike Klauck, Toan Trong Tran, Nora Schmitt, Mehran Kianinia, Andrea Steinfurth, Matthias Heinrich, Milos Toth, Alexander Szameit, Igor Aharonovich, Alexander S. Solntsev

Published Nov 23, 2020• 42 citations

Abstract

Abstract Quantum random number generation (QRNG) harnesses the intrinsic randomness of quantum mechanical phenomena. On-chip photonic circuitry provides a robust and versatile platform that can address and explore fundamental questions in quantum as well as classical physics. Likewise, integrated waveguide-based architectures hold the potential for intrinsically scalable, efficient and compact implementations of photonic QRNG. Here, we harness the quantum emission from the two-dimensional material hexagonal boron nitride an emerging atomically thin medium that can generate single photons on demand while operating at room temperature. By means of a customized splitter arrangement, we achieve true random number generation through the measurement of single photons exiting one of four designated output ports, and subsequently verify the randomness of the sequences in accordance with the National Institute of Standards and Technology benchmark suite. Our results clearly demonstrate the viability and efficiency of this approach to on-chip deterministic random number generators.

DOI: 10.1088/2040-8986/abccff

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High-purity quantum emitters in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) hold the potential for use as high-quality quantum random number generators (QRNGs). In this work, we verify a QRNG using a deterministically placed quantum emitter in nanoindented hBN with

\mathbf{\sim 9 5 \%}

single-photon purity.

Quantum random number generation is a key ingredient for quantum cryptography and fundamental quantum optics and could advance Monte Carlo simulations and machine learning. An established generation scheme is based on single photons impinging on a beam splitter. Here, we experimentally demonstrate quantum random number generation solely based on the symmetric emission profile of a dipole aligned orthogonal to the laboratory frame. The demonstration builds on defect centers in hexagonal boron nitride that emit photons in random directions within the dipole emission profile and benefits from the ability to manipulate and align the emission directionality. We prove the randomness in correlated photon detection events making use of the NIST randomness test suite and show that the randomness remains for two independently emitting defect centers. The scheme can be extended to random number generation by coherent single photons with potential applications in solid-state based quantum communication at room temperature.

Quantum random number generators (QRNGs) leverage the inherent unpredictability of quantum mechanical phenomena to produce random numbers. However, the performance of many QRNGs is hindered by limitations such as low generation rates and the bulkiness of systems utilizing single-photon detectors (SPDs). In this study, we present a QRNG that addresses these challenges by using a micro-LED as an entropy source, utilizing the intensity fluctuations of spontaneous emissions. By applying post-processing techniques, our 5 × 5 µm 2 micro-LED-based system achieves a PD bandwidth-limited generation rate of 9.375 Gbit/s while successfully passing the required randomness tests outlined by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Importantly, systematic testing across micro-LEDs of varying sizes demonstrates consistently high performance, highlighting the robustness of this approach. The compact, small footprint, scalable design, and surface emission characteristics of micro-LEDs pave the way for the development of parallel QRNG-integrated chips, which hold the potential to deliver ultra-high random number generation rates in practical, miniaturized platforms.

Data protection and confidentiality have become a serious concern in today’s world. Their security is guaranteed by cryptographic protocols, which heavily rely on random numbers as a measure against predictability. Classically, randomness is generated via complex but deterministic algorithms, which are vulnerable to attacks. Quantum Random Number Generators (QRNGs) have emerged as a promising solution, as they provide true random numbers based on the intrinsic non-deterministic nature of quantum mechanics. However, critical challenges for QRNGs are the certification and quantification of their genuine randomness, especially in the presence of untrusted devices, and their compactness for systematic deployment. In this feasibility study, to face these challenges, we propose to use a silicon-photonic platform, leveraging on the concept of quantum contextuality for a semi-device independent generator. In particular, we use Klyachko-Can-Binicioglu-Shumovsky (KCBS) inequality to assess a fundamental property of quantum measurements: that their outcomes depend on the specific measurement context.