Use of Metamaterials to Gather Single Photons for Optical Transfer of Information

Scientists at the University of Alberta are investigating the possibility of using metamaterials to gather single photons for transmitting data optically. Traditionally, a large number of photons form a laser light beam to transfer audio, video and text.

For this purpose, the research team headed by Zubin Jacob are intending to use metamaterials to overcome the challenge of using a single photon to transfer data. Metamaterials are built in with nanostructures, which enable it to gather single light photons and transmit data.

According to Zubin Jacob using a single photon to transmit information is much more beneficial as complex data can be encoded into a single light particle. This will in turn enable encoding confidential information and help in protecting sensitive information. The purpose of this research is mainly focussed on consumers such as the military, which require high levels of data security and encryption. Various other research programmes at different universities are focussing on using single light photons along with electron waves. The combination of electron and photon waves creates a Plasmon wave, which can be transmitted through a metal nanowire.

All the latest developments in the field of nanophotonics and quantum-based technologies are being published in the October 28th edition of the journal called Science.