Quantum storage via refractive index control

TL;DR

This paper explores how controlling the refractive index in an atomic medium enables efficient quantum storage of single photons by mapping their states onto atomic spin waves, with potential for multichannel quantum memories.

Contribution

It introduces a novel method of quantum storage using refractive index control to map photon states onto atomic excitations, expanding quantum memory techniques.

Findings

Refractive index control enables mapping of photon states to atomic spin waves.

Continuous refractive index variation allows reversible quantum state transfer.

Potential for multichannel quantum memory applications.

Abstract

Off-resonant Raman interaction of a single-photon wave packet and a classical control field in an atomic medium with controlled refractive index is investigated. It is shown that a continuous change of refractive index during the interaction leads to the mapping of a single photon state to a superposition of atomic collective excitations (spin waves) with different wave vectors and visa versa. The suitability of refractive index control for developing multichannel quantum memories is discussed and possible schemes of implementation are considered.