Optimizing optical Bragg scattering for single-photon frequency conversion

TL;DR

This paper presents a systematic theory for optimizing single-photon frequency conversion via optical Bragg scattering, identifying key dispersion effects and providing design rules for efficient quantum frequency conversion in integrated photonic platforms.

Contribution

The authors develop a comprehensive theoretical framework for optimizing Bragg scattering-based frequency conversion, including suppression of unwanted processes and application to various waveguide platforms.

Findings

Third-order dispersion suppresses spurious scattering.

Dispersion above fourth order limits maximum efficiency.

Numerical simulations confirm the effectiveness of the optimization rules.

Abstract

We develop a systematic theory for optimising single-photon frequency conversion using optical Bragg scattering. The efficiency and phase-matching conditions for the desired Bragg scattering conversion as well as spurious scattering and modulation instability are identified. We find that third-order dispersion can suppress unwanted processes, while dispersion above the fourth order limits the maximum conversion efficiency. We apply the optimisation conditions to frequency conversion in highly nonlinear fiber, silicon nitride waveguides and silicon nanowires. Efficient conversion is confirmed using full numerical simulations. These design rules will assist the development of efficient quantum frequency conversion between multicolour single photon sources for integration in complex quantum networks.