The Fraunhofer Institute for Microelectronic Circuits and Systems (IMS) is launching the research project 'Nanolaminates for Innovative Nonlinear Nanophotonic Circuits' (NANO-INC) in collaboration with the Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (IFW). The aim of the project is to develop materials for photonic circuits that will serve as the basis for quantum technologies in Europe in the future.
The Fraunhofer IMS is contributing its expertise in microelectronics and cleanroom operation to the project and is responsible for both project coordination and the development of photonic circuits. The IFW Dresden will initially develop chemical precursors on which thin layers of material will be deposited. The processes for developing the new materials are then scaled up at the IMS in order to create a transferable quantum photonics platform based on CMOS. Thanks to CMOS compatibility, the photonic components should then be easy to integrate into existing electronic systems and technologies.
Photonic quantum technologies are considered crucial for Europe's technological sovereignty. The demand for high-performance materials is correspondingly high. The project is therefore focusing on research into new, non-linear materials that will surpass existing solutions in terms of functionality and scalability.
