Topological Quantum Information Processing Mediated Via Hybrid Topogical Insulator Structures
Abstract
Spin has long been known to have the potential to perform universal quantum computation. To realize quantum computation with spins one needs an extraordinary amount of control over the spins so we can set, manipulate, and read out the various processes required in information processing. This is a daunting task as these processes are not immune from decoherence. While one can manipulate single spins with high-fidelity and long coherence times, there is no clear path to move from single spin manipulation to many spins. Recent advances have revealed a new type of information processing, topological quantum computation, which is immune from environment related decoherence. Topological information processing relies on the manipulation of anyons, particles which obey non-Abelian statistics. The simplest of these particles, Majorana fermions, are believed to exist as excitations in exotic materials under extreme conditions. Additionally, Majorana fermions have been proposed to exist in a new class of materials commonly referred to as topological insulators coupled with superconducting contacts under much less extreme conditions. In this work, we propose to theoretically investigate the formation, manipulation, entanglement and detection of Majorana fermions in diamond-topological insulator-superconductor heterojunctions. Furthermore, we propose to further investigate the relationship between superconducting elements and 2D and 3D topological insulators. The tasks we outline in this proposal will be undertaken using a variety of analytical tools to provide insight into the system behavior at the theoretical limits and numerical techniques to yield results in experimentally realistic conditions. The goal is to make significant and measurable advances towards transformative information processing technologies that have the potential to vastly increase operational capabilities of multiple Air Force applications.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 28, 2014
- Accession Number
- ADA602907
Entities
People
- Matthew J Gilbert
Organizations
- University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign