Integrated Quantum Optics Based on Surface Plasmon Waveguides

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Oliver Benson, since 11/2011; Dr. Bernd Löchel
• Subject Area: Experimental Condensed Matter Physics
• Term: from 2009 to 2012
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 134327630

The goal of this project is to develop and study compact quantum plasmonic elements. This is established by coupling single-photon emitters to waveguides for surface plasmons in metal nanostructures. The unique properties of surface plasmon waveguides allow the fabrication of compact, sub-wavelength scale elements. Metal nanostructures will be fabricated by electron beam lithography. The experiments will be performed by nanowire quantum dots and defectcentres in diamond nanocrystals as sources for visible single photons. Individual emitters will be precisely positioned using the tip of an atomic force microscope. Evanescent de-coupling of the surface plasmon excitations to external optics will be achieved via tapered optical fibres. In this way, a highly compact single-photon device, integrated in on-chip quantum optics experiments will be realized.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Ehemaliger Antragsteller: Dr. Thomas Aichele, until 10/2011