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Engineering & Technology

Unleashing quantum into the world [quantum applications]

T. Pultarova

Published May 1, 2019• 0 citations
Publisher

Abstract

The author discusses the application of quantum technologies in the real world, from a UK perspective. The paper concentrates on quantum communication over fibre networks and over space links. Quantum key distribution is also considered. Mention is briefly made of quantum clock technology and quantum gravity sensors.
DOI
10.1049/et.2019.0403

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The field of quantum communication is mature enough to be clearly divided into an applied side, around Quantum Key Distribution, and a fundamental research program. The applied side is driven by real-world applications with concerns like reliability and costs. The second aspect is still mainly curiosity driven and aims, among other things, at extending the distance of fiber-based quantum communication to continental (or even inter-continental) distances. In this tutorial I will give an intuitive perspective on some recent advances in the state of the art.
Quantum key distribution (QKD) offers unconditional information security by allowing two distant users to establish a common encryption key resilient to hacking. Resultingly, QKD networks interconnecting critical infrastructure and enabling the secure exchange of classified information, can provide a solution to the increasing number of successful cyberattacks. To efficiently deploy quantum networks, the technology must be integrated over existing communication infrastructure, such as optical fibre links. Yet, QKD poses stringent requirements on the conditions of the network over which it is deployed. This work demonstrates the first quantum communication network in Cyprus via the deployment of a multi-node quantum network, exploiting existing commercial underground optical fibre. The network employs bidirectional occupation of fibres and wavelength multiplexing in a ring architecture to achieve, with minimal use of dark fibres, high-rate QKD. Results obtained reveal consistent key generation rates across all nodes, confirming reliable operation in a real-world environment. This deployment highlights the feasibility of leveraging existing telecom infrastructure for quantum-secured communication, marking a significant step toward scalable and cost-effective quantum networks suited for critical applications.