The project, part of the Valencian Community's Quantum Communications Plan, is a collaborative effort between the University of Valencia, the Polytechnic University of Valencia, the University of Alicante, and CEU Cardenal Herrera University. Together, these institutions are driving a new wave of innovation to position the Valencian Community as a leader in quantum technologies applied to fields such as telecommunications, cybersecurity, and healthcare. PLATSiNx-Q focuses on developing a hybrid integrated photonics technology. In practice, this involves combining two types of materials with significant complementary advantages: silicon nitride, which is highly stable and efficient for guiding light, and III-V semiconductors, essential for generating laser light. This combination allows for the creation of more compact and precise devices, ready for scaling up to industrial production.
“The goal is not only to demonstrate that a technology works in the laboratory, but also that it can be integrated into real-world systems and produced on a large scale,” explained Daniel Pastor, principal investigator of the project. “For quantum communications to become a reality, they need robust, reproducible, and efficient solutions.”.
One of the project's main milestones is the development of a tunable laser with high spectral purity, meaning very low noise and a wide tuning capacity. This type of device is key in quantum key distribution systems, a technology poised to revolutionize communications security. Light as an ally of quantum communications. In recent years, quantum technologies have advanced remarkably, but their true potential can only be realized in large-scale systems: networks connecting thousands of users or infrastructures capable of processing enormous amounts of information. For this, technological integration is essential.
“Photons are the ideal carriers of quantum information,” the project’s lead researcher pointed out. “They interact very little with their environment, maintain coherence for longer periods, and facilitate the stability of complex systems. That’s why integrated photonics is a key component for the development of quantum networks.”.
The project focuses on developing integrated technology to enable the generation and processing of quantum light states. Innovation with an industrial focus: To integrate different materials into a single device, PLATSiNx-Q employs a technique known as micro-transfer printing, which allows for the precise bonding of active and passive components. This technique is particularly relevant because it is designed to be scalable to mass industrial production.
“One of the project’s greatest strengths is that it considers from the outset how to bring these advances to the industrial sector,” Daniel Pastor emphasized. “This is fundamental if we want quantum technology to have a real impact on society.” Furthermore, the project includes the development of an open-access hybrid integration platform, which will make it easier for other research groups to use and expand upon the advances achieved.
