Spectroscopic Imaging of Anyons In Two-Dimensional Devices
Abstract
The research problem and objectives: The goal of creating topological qubits based on non-Abelian anyons is currently one of the most exciting areas in quantum condensed matter physics. Progress in this area will not only explore new and fundamental science but will also advance quantum information technologies by creating qubits that will be more resistant to quantum decoherence than the current generation of qubits. Recently, much of the research in this area has focused on Majorana zero modes, which are Ising non-Abelian anyons, in one-dimensional hybrid superconducting systems. The main objective of this program is to advance our understanding of anyons with measurements on the nanoscale and to establish the science underlying the implementation of anyons for topological qubits. Technical approaches: The proposed program will explore a wider range of anyons in two-dimensional materials with an advanced approach that will combine these materials and study their properties in device-like settings using our unique high-resolution imaging and spectroscopy capabilities based on scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). The program will provide the means to directly visualizeand probe Abelian and non-Abelian anyons in graphene-based devices, as well probing Majorana zero modes in WTe2 devices. The proposed program is focused on two different approaches for experimenting with anyons that are realized in 2D vdW materials. In one approach we will use atomically pristine graphene-based devices in which anyons are created in fractional quantum Hall states. In another approach, we will utilize the unique nature of WTe2 monolayer, in which both a topological insulator and a superconducting phase canbe created, so as to make hybrid devices hosting MZMs. Anticipated outcome of research): Our experiments will provide the first direct imaging of anyons in a 2D platform, and characterize energy gaps that protect these excitations, which is critical to their use in qubit applications. The interaction between anyons underlies the proposed schemes for using them for qubit operations and will bestudied in the proposed program. By taking advantage of new nanofabrication techniques, we will also explore ways to locally manipulate anyons so as to control and precisely study their interactions. Impact on DoD capabilities: The development of powerful new technologies for computation will significantly impact applications in science and engineering areas that are critical to the Department of Defense (DoD) capabilities and objectives. The recent breakthrough in demonstrating a quantum advantage in computing with processors made from superconducting qubits is a significant milestone for quantum information processing. The global endeavor involving industrial, governmental, and academic researchers to advance both quantum hardware and software is quickly accelerating. While qubit technology, such as those based on conventional superconductors, will undoubtably make significant advances in the short term, theneed for alternative approaches that will create both highly protected (against decoherence) and scalable qubit technologies is well recognized. This proposal is aimed at establishing the science to build alternative qubits based on anyons. If qubits based on anyons, as examined here can be successfully fabricated, it will provide the DoD with a powerful quantum computational advantage that will both advance exciting scientific progress and add to the security of our nation. This has been approved for Public Release.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jun 09, 2021
- Source ID
- N000142112592
Entities
People
- Ali Yazdani
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Trustees of Princeton University
- United States Navy