Combined investment of $1 million in two projects in quantum technology for secure communication

Montreal and Varennes, June 17, 2021 – Cybersecurity is a major issue in today’s connected society. Quantum technologies would provide a revolutionary solution to the need for secure communication, especially for the transmission of personal, banking and government data. National Institute for Scientific Research (INRS) professor Roberto Morandotti is leading this work. The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) has awarded him more than $800,000 in grants for two projects in quantum communication and quantum cryptography. The first project also benefits from a $215,157 contribution from Prompt and Quebec’s Ministère de l’Économie et de l’Innovation.

Quantum communication

The researcher’s first interest is quantum communication networks, composed of local nodes. These connection points generate photons that are used to transport information. The quantum properties of these light particles allow them to travel long distances through an optical fibre between local nodes.

Two major bottlenecks are holding back the development of this promising technology: photon loss and the lack of robust interconnection between local nodes. To overcome these obstacles, Professor Morandotti will collaborate with industry partner OptoElectronic Components Inc.

Together, they will develop robust, low-loss interconnections between integrated waveguide photonic chips, generating photons, and standard optical fibres. “This is a crucial step towards commercializing fibre-secure quantum communications that will help maintain Canada as a leading player in the field,” Professor Morandotti concluded.

The project also includes collaboration with British academic and industrial teams, who will develop photonic chips in parallel.

Quantum cryptography

Another promising approach to secure communication is quantum cryptography. This method is based on the quantum characteristics of photons. Indeed, the quantum distribution of keys prevents the interception or copying of information photons and makes communications secure.

The use of on-chip photonic structures integrated with fibre optic networks offers several advantages. However, such devices often require a compromise between cost and performance. Professor Morandotti, with this quantum cryptography project, seeks to improve these photonic platforms, with OEC support. This project is also being carried out in collaboration with academic and industrial teams in the UK. In turn, these partners will develop source architectures for the development of miniature atomic clocks.