Photon-pair source working in a silicon-based detector wavelength range using tapered micro/nanofibers

Area of Science:

• Quantum optics
• Photonics
• Quantum information technology

Background:

• High-quality photon sources are crucial for advancing quantum photonic information technology.
• Spontaneous four-wave mixing (SFWM) is a key process for generating photon pairs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a low-noise, high-speed photon source utilizing micro/nanofibers (MNFs).
• To tailor photon generation for optimal performance with silicon-based detectors.

Main Methods:

• Generating photon pairs via spontaneous four-wave mixing (SFWM) in a micro/nanofiber (MNF).
• Controlling MNF diameter to tailor signal and idler photon wavelengths.
• Coupling the MNF source to fiber systems.

Main Results:

• Achieved a low-noise and high-speed photon source.
• Generated signal and idler photons within the silicon-based detector wavelength range.
• Observed high detection efficiency and coincidence count rate.
• Demonstrated negligible coupling loss to other fiber systems.

Conclusions:

• The MNF-based photon source is highly efficient and suitable for silicon detectors.
• This fiber-based quantum light source is readily integrable into existing fiber systems.
• The developed source shows significant potential for quantum information applications.