High-rate intercity quantum key distribution with a semiconductor single-photon source.

Quantum key distribution (QKD) enables the transmission of information that is secure against general attacks by eavesdroppers. The use of on-demand quantum light sources in QKD protocols is expected to help improve security and maximum tolerable loss. Semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) are a promising building block for quantum communication applications because of the deterministic emission of single photons with high brightness and low multiphoton contribution.

A Solid-State Source of Single and Entangled Photons at Diamond SiV-Center Transitions Operating at 80K.

Large-scale quantum networks require the implementation of long-lived quantum memories as stationary nodes interacting with qubits of light. Epitaxially grown quantum dots hold great potential for the on-demand generation of single and entangled photons with high purity and indistinguishability. Coupling these emitters to memories with long coherence times enables the development of hybrid nanophotonic devices that incorporate the advantages of both systems.