We discuss an unorthodox way to overcome quantum decoherence by using plasmonics that can speed up quantum processes to the extent that they outpace and thus become immune to decoherence.

Photons are the primary candidates for implementing quantum networks, which are essential for both secure communication and transmission of quantum information. In order to produce single photons or make them interact, one needs to couple light with matter. The issue of low bitrates is central to most photonic quantum technologies and requires a targeted and strong enhancement of light-matter interaction. The interaction enhancement approach based on plasmonic nanostructures has a potential to transform the way quantum photonic systems operate. It strongly contrasts with the conventional pursuit of longer matter coherence time, relying instead on speeding up processes beyond the rates of dephasing. We discuss our recent and planned work aimed at outpacing decoherence in quantum optical devices using nanoscale photonic components.

Vladimir M. Shalaev specializes in nanophotonics, plasmonics, optical metamaterials, and quantum photonics. Vladimir M. Shalaev has received several awards for his research in the field of nanophotonics and metamaterials, including the Max Born Award of the Optical Society of America for his pioneering contributions to the field of optical metamaterials, the Willis E. Lamb Award for Laser Science and Quantum Optics, IEEE Photonics Society William Streifer Scientific Achievement Award, Rolf Landauer medal of the ETOPIM (Electrical, Transport and Optical Properties of Inhomogeneous Media) International Association, the UNESCO Medal for the development of nanosciences and nanotechnologies, and the OSA and SPIE Goodman Book Writing Award. He is a Fellow of the IEEE, APS, SPIE, MRS and OSA.

Purdue Quantum Science and Engineering Institute, Discovery Park

Researchers should cite this work as follows:

• Vladimir M. Shalaev (2019), "Can Plasmonics Help Outpace Quantum Decoherence?," https://nanohub.org/resources/30742.

  BibTex | EndNote

1. decoherence
2. metamaterials
3. nanophotonics
4. plasmonics
5. quantum networks
6. quantum photonics