New quantum test laboratory accelerated research – University of Innsbruck
In the Infineon research laboratory in Villach, industrially manufactured quantum chips are tested in short cycles. This drove the joint research for marketable quantum computers with the University of Innsbruck and Joanneum Research. The test laboratory will be implemented as part of the three-year joint project “OptoQuant”.
Quantum computers are considered a possible key technology of the 21st century. In the development of computers that can be used productively, however, there are still a number of technical challenges to be overcome. The global research race for the best technology is therefore in full swing. Among the innovation drivers is a team from the University of Innsbruck, Joanneum Research and Infineon. In the “OptoQuant” project, they are jointly researching ion-based quantum processors with integrated optics in order to implement marketable quantum computers.
Research alliance strengthens Europe
Sabine Herlitschka, Chairwoman of the Board Infineon Technologies Austria: “With the quantum activities, we are using the great opportunity from Austria and Europe to develop a pioneering role in this global future field of pioneering developments. The new quantum test laboratory at Infineon in Villach combines scientific knowledge with industrial technologies, to which we contribute our top-level expertise. We are thus creating an excellent research alliance in order to be at the forefront and can use quantum technology as an opportunity for Europe in global competition. We at Infineon are actively committed to this.”
Faster testing and learning cycles
The new quantum test laboratory offers a unique infrastructure designed for fast test cycles and reliable operation. In the systems with special cooling, the quantum particles are trapped and manipulated by laser waves. The measurement time of an industrially manufactured ion trap module can be reduced to one day instead of several weeks. In addition, the individual quantum chips, which are manufactured using different production methods and surface materials, can also be checked, verified and improved in their chip design more quickly. This accelerated the learning and knowledge transfer within the team. A test standard was also jointly developed in order to increase the overall quality and reliability of the development process.
Excellent Quantum Triangle
With the new test laboratory in Villach and the semiconductor know-how of Infineon, the quantum expertise of the project partners is successfully supplemented. At the University of Innsbruck, the focus is on basic research, control and software programming. At Joanneum Research in Weiz, the focus is on 3D lithography with integrated optics.
Thomas Monz from the Institute for Experimental Physics at the University of Innsbruck: “Basic research paved the way to the quantum processor. Now powerful processes and interfaces like the new test laboratory are needed to further develop the quantum processor with industry standards between basic physics and engineering.”
Heinz Mayer, Managing Director of Joanneum Research: “At MATERIALS, our institute for surface technologies and photonics, we are working on optical structures in order to spatially reduce the quantum processor. Together we can significantly advance the heart of future quantum computers.”
The partnership is also an important hub for the next generation of quantum researchers. At Infineon in Villach alone, ten students are currently finding perfect conditions for their scientific work. You will be supervised by four quantum experts. There are currently two quantum jobs to be filled at Infineon.
Research and innovation location
Forward-looking quantum lighthouse projects also need appropriate framework conditions. Henrietta Egerth, FFG Managing Director: “When companies invest in future technologies for the first time and score points with innovative products ‘Made in Austria’, then this is of enormous importance for Austria as a business location. We are therefore particularly pleased when we as FFG can support Infineon’s new quantum test laboratory via the R&D project ‘OptoQuant’. With its European network, the FFG also enables the strengthening of transnational cooperation for this important future and key technology.”
promising applications
Quantum computers have the potential to solve certain complex and computationally intensive tasks many times faster than classic computers. While today’s computers work with bits and execute arithmetic combinations one after the other, a quantum computer with qubits can consider all arithmetic questions at the same time. It is a gamechanger technology to solve previously unsolved tasks.
For example, highly complex processes in logistics or energy supply could be quickly optimized and contribute to robust supply chains. There is also great potential in the development of new drugs, vaccines or personalized medicine in order to be able to simulate effects and side effects more quickly. A lot is also possible in the development of completely new, environmentally friendly, lighter materials.
The future of quantum computers is promising and the disruptive potential will be used above all if industrialization succeeds and the technology is used for the benefit of society.
Research project “OptoQuant”
The quantum test laboratory will be part of the three-year project OptoQuant implemented. This started in June 2021 and will run until 2024. The research volume totals 2.7 million euros and is co-financed by the “Quantum Research and Technology” initiative of the National Foundation for Research, Technology and Development and the Austrian research promotion agency FFG.