Monash researchers build light-powered chip that generates, steers, and reads quantum information
Scientists at Monash University have created a single chip that produces, directs, and converts light-based information in one integrated system. The device uses atomically thin materials and nanoscale structures to control a quantum property of light called the "valley" degree of freedom, enabling new ways to encode and process data.
The breakthrough, published in Nature Photonics, addresses a long-standing limitation in valleytronics research. Until now, researchers could generate or detect valley-encoded signals separately, but not perform both operations-plus routing-within one device.
How the chip works
The device stacks ultra-thin materials just a few atoms thick with specially engineered nanostructures called metasurfaces. This combination lets researchers control light at extremely small scales without relying on direct material growth on photonic structures, which had posed technical obstacles.
The chip operates at room temperature, a significant advantage over many quantum systems that require extreme cooling. This makes the technology more practical for real-world deployment.
Demonstrated capabilities
Researchers tested the chip by encoding and processing two separate images simultaneously, showing it can handle multiple information streams at once. This capacity matters for future computing systems that need to process parallel data flows.
The device achieves high precision in creating, routing, and reading information encoded in valley states. Light-based processing offers massive bandwidth and lower energy consumption than traditional electrical approaches.
Potential applications
The technology could support faster computing, reduce energy use, and enable new methods for secure communications and advanced data processing. Applications span quantum computing, advanced imaging, and next-generation optical communication systems.
The international team included researchers from Monash University, Singapore University of Technology and Design, LMU Munich, and the University of Technology Sydney. The collaboration combined expertise across nanophotonics, two-dimensional materials, and optoelectronics.
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