The Quantum Noise Challenge
Quantum processors, the backbone of next-generation computing, face a critical obstacle: noise. Superconducting quantum circuits, widely used by industry leaders like Google, IBM, D-Wave, Rigetti, and IQM, suffer from noise-induced errors that limit their performance. The primary culprit is quasiparticle poisoning—a phenomenon where stray electrons from cosmic rays and other sources disrupt quantum coherence, hindering the development of practical, large-scale quantum computers.Current solutions, such as gap engineering, require complex redesigns and additional fabrication steps. These approaches lack the flexibility to post-process existing chips, leaving a critical gap in the market.
The FEMTOGAPENGINE project introduces a revolutionary, maskless, post-fabrication process using femtosecond laser pulses to locally tune the superconducting gap (Δ) in Al-on-Si circuits. This innovation enables designer superconducting gap landscapes: Create engineered energy barriers and quasiparticle sinks with micron-scale precision, compatible with industry-standard layouts, in-situ & in-operando tuning. It allows the adjustment of superconducting properties after fabrication, without adding new materials or complex lithography. Its use effectively blocks quasiparticles from reaching sensitive Josephson junctions, dramatically improving quantum coherence.
FEMTOGAPENGINE aims to develop a prototype machine for in-situ, in-operando superconducting circuit tuning and testing. This project will explore laser-processing parameters and their long-term stability, demonstrate post-fabrication tuning of superconducting test circuits and establish the first laser-defined platform for local superconducting gap engineering.
A successful outcome could transform the quantum computing industry, providing a scalable solution for quasiparticle management in quantum processors, detectors, resonators, and hybrid devices. This technology has the potential to actively reduce noise, marking a major milestone for quantum computing.
The global quantum computing market is projected to reach $100 billion by 2035 (McKinsey). Noise mitigation is the single biggest bottleneck in scaling superconducting quantum processors. FEMTOGAPENGINE addresses this challenge head-on, offering: a tool for the Quantum Age: Laser-processing workstations with IP-protected know-how for modifying and controlling noise in superconducting processors. Positioning us as a tool provider for the quantum industry, enabling chip manufacturers to post-process and optimize their devices.
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