Two-micron-wavelength single-photon detection using the high-critical-current-bank structure superconducting wide...

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Quantum Technologies
• Materials Science

Background:

• Superconducting strip photon detectors offer high efficiency at 2000 nm for quantum science and atmospheric physics.
• Conventional detectors require narrow nanostrips, demanding advanced fabrication.
• Wider strips are desirable for simpler manufacturing but typically have lower sensitivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a high-efficiency single-photon detector at 2000 nm using a significantly wider superconducting strip.
• To overcome the sensitivity limitations of wider superconducting strips for photon detection.
• To provide a more accessible fabrication route for high-performance 2000 nm photon detectors.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a 20-μm-wide superconducting strip photon detector.
• Integration of a high critical current bank (HCCB) structure to enhance sensitivity.
• Incorporation of an optical cavity optimized for the 2000 nm wavelength band.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated high-efficiency single-photon detection at 2000 nm with a 20-μm-wide strip.
• Achieved a system detection efficiency of 70%.
• Obtained near-unity internal detection efficiency, validating the HCCB structure's effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• The developed detector offers a high-productivity approach for 2000 nm photon detection.
• The combination of HCCB and optical cavity enables high performance with wider strips.
• This technology facilitates advancements in quantum science and atmospheric physics applications requiring 2000 nm detection.