Quantum Computing

Superconducting qubits are electrical circuits made of superconducting materials that operate at extremely low temperatures. They are controlled using microwave pulses. Due to their compatibility with the prevailing processes in the semiconductor industry, they are one of the most promising technologies for quantum computers. Fraunhofer IPMS leverages its expertise in state-of-the-art, industry-compatible CMOS semiconductor manufacturing in the 300 mm wafer standard. Focus: Deposition, nanostructuring, electrical characterization, cryogenic control electronics, optimized metallization, and BeoL modules for superconducting qubits.

Here, the spin of an electron in a semiconductor device (e.g., silicon) serves as a qubit. Semiconductor-based qubits are a promising type of qubit for quantum computers because they are based on the same materials and manufacturing processes as conventional chips. By using known CMOS manufacturing methods, these qubits can potentially be miniaturized and integrated in large numbers. A key advantage is the ability to integrate the control electronics directly on the chip, which enables scalability and could facilitate the manufacture of larger and more powerful quantum computers.

Fraunhofer IPMS is participating by utilizing adapted processes from CMOS manufacturing. The focus is on using our state-of-the-art 300 mm CMOS cleanroom to provide technology improvements for scalable quantum computing.

Semiconductor-based Spin Qubits 

Semiconductor-based spin qubits are considered a promising technology for future scalable quantum processors. By leveraging established semiconductor manufacturing technologies, they offer the potential for integrating quantum hardware with advanced fabrication processes.

Fraunhofer IPMS is developing key building blocks for future quantum chips – from the fabrication of silicon spin qubit structures to cryogenic electronics for the control and readout of quantum systems at extremely low temperatures.

With its expertise in semiconductor processes, 300 mm manufacturing capabilities, and quantum engineering, Fraunhofer IPMS is creating important foundations for powerful and industrially scalable quantum processors.

Superconducting Qubits

Superconducting qubits are one of the leading approaches for developing powerful quantum computers. Scaling this technology requires stable and reproducible fabrication processes as well as close integration of quantum research with industrial semiconductor technologies.

Together with its partners, Fraunhofer IPMS is developing key technologies for the next generation of superconducting quantum chips – ranging from the fabrication and integration of superconducting components to scalable processes and pilot lines.

With its expertise in semiconductor manufacturing and 300 mm fabrication infrastructure, Fraunhofer IPMS supports the transition from fundamental research towards industrially applicable quantum processors.

The following press releases highlight important milestones on the way to stable, scalable, and Europe-based quantum hardware platforms.

Photonic Qubits

Photonic qubits offer a promising approach for developing scalable quantum computers. By using photons as information carriers, they enable new architectures for quantum processors and open up perspectives for integrated, energy-efficient quantum hardware.

Fraunhofer IPMS is researching photonic quantum chips based on established semiconductor and photonics technologies. Key areas include the integration of optical functions on chips as well as the development of electronic and control concepts for future photonic quantum computers.

With its expertise in integrated photonics, microelectronics, and system integration, Fraunhofer IPMS contributes to the development of industrially scalable photonic quantum computers made in Germany.

Neutral Atom Qubits

Neutral atom qubits offer a promising approach for future scalable quantum computers. A key challenge is the precise control of individual atoms and the parallel manipulation of large-scale qubit arrays.

Fraunhofer IPMS is developing innovative MEMS-based Spatial Light Modulators (SLMs) that enable highly precise and programmable light patterns for the manipulation of neutral atoms. This micro-mirror technology opens up new possibilities for optical tweezers and the scalable control of atomic quantum systems.

With its expertise in MEMS technologies, microsystems engineering, and optical system integration, Fraunhofer IPMS is providing important technological foundations for the next generation of neutral atom quantum computers.