Transferring quantum information using sound

How can quantum information be transferred from one atom to another? A team of researchers from TU Wien and Harvard University has proposed using phonons - the quanta of sound. Quantum physics is on the brink of a technological breakthrough: new types of sensors, secure data transmission methods and maybe even computers could be made possible thanks to quantum technologies. However, the main obstacle here is finding the right way to couple and precisely control a sufficient number of quantum systems (for example, individual atoms). A team of researchers from TU Wien and Harvard University has found a new way to transfer the necessary quantum information. They propose using tiny mechanical vibrations. The atoms are coupled with each other by 'phonons' - the smallest quantum mechanical units of vibrations or sound waves. Tiny diamonds with deliberate defects - "We are testing tiny diamonds with built-in silicon atoms - these quantum systems are particularly promising," says Professor Peter Rabl from TU Wien.