Could one make a diamond-based quantum computer?

TL;DR

This paper evaluates the feasibility of building a scalable diamond-based quantum computer using optical control of electron spins, focusing on two-qubit gates and device linking at temperatures above cryogenic levels.

Contribution

It provides an analysis of dopant properties and interaction mechanisms necessary for scalable diamond quantum computing, emphasizing routes to multi-gate systems.

Findings

Potential to develop quantum processors operating above cryogenic temperatures.

Identification of key dopant centers and interactions for scalable quantum gates.

Feasibility of linking 10-20 quantum gates in diamond-based devices.

Abstract

We assess routes to a diamond-based quantum computer, where we specifically look towards scalable devices, with at least 10 linked quantum gates. Such a computer should satisfy the deVincenzo rules and might be used at convenient temperatures. The specific examples we examine are based on the optical control of electron spins. For some such devices, nuclear spins give additional advantages. Since there have already been demonstrations of basic initialisation and readout, our emphasis is on routes to two-qubit quantum gate operations and the linking of perhaps 10-20 such gates. We analyse the dopant properties necessary, especially centres containing N and P, and give results using simple scoping calculations for the key interactions determining gate performance. Our conclusions are cautiously optimistic: it may be possible to develop a useful quantum information processor that works above cryogenic temperatures.