Photon pair generation with tailored frequency correlations in graded-index multimode fibers

Area of Science:

• Quantum optics
• Photonics
• Fiber optics

Background:

• Four-wave mixing (FWM) is a key nonlinear process for generating photon pairs.
• Controlling spectral correlations is crucial for quantum information applications.
• Multimode optical fibers offer unique nonlinear properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To theoretically investigate photon pair generation with controlled spectral correlations in graded-index multimode optical fibers (GIMFs).
• To explore the potential of GIMFs as tunable, quantum-state-preserving photon sources.
• To demonstrate the generation of factorable two-photon states for heralded single photons.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical modeling of the four-wave mixing process in GIMFs.
• Analysis of spectral correlations and quantum state preservation.
• Investigation of tunable pump source effects.

Main Results:

• Quantum correlations of photon pairs in GIMFs are preserved over a wide spectral range with a tunable pump.
• Generation of factorable two-photon states is achievable, enabling heralded pure-state single photons without post-filtering.
• Simultaneous generation of correlated and uncorrelated photon pairs within the same fiber is possible.

Conclusions:

• GIMFs are promising candidates for tunable, quantum-state-preserving photon sources.
• The ability to generate factorable states simplifies heralded single-photon generation.
• GIMFs offer versatile control over photon pair properties, including simultaneous correlated and uncorrelated pair generation.