Single-parameter non-adiabatic quantized charge pumping

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates experimentally and theoretically that single-parameter modulation can achieve quantized charge pumping in a nanowire, simplifying the process and potentially broadening applications in quantum electronics.

Contribution

It introduces a simple model and experimental evidence for quantized charge pumping using only one modulation parameter, eliminating the need for multiple phase-shifted signals.

Findings

Quantized current transfer of multiple elementary charges per cycle.

Non-adiabatic blockade enables single-parameter pumping.

Potential applications in metrology and quantum electronics.

Abstract

Controlled charge pumping in an AlGaAs/GaAs gated nanowire by single-parameter modulation is studied experimentally and theoretically. Transfer of integral multiples of the elementary charge per modulation cycle is clearly demonstrated. A simple theoretical model shows that such a quantized current can be generated via loading and unloading of a dynamic quasi-bound state. It demonstrates that non-adiabatic blockade of unwanted tunnel events can obliterate the requirement of having at least two phase-shifted periodic signals to realize quantized pumping. The simple configuration without multiple pumping signals might find wide application in metrological experiments and quantum electronics.