Using Quantum Confinement to Uniquely Identify Devices

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel quantum-based authentication method using tunnelling spectra in resonant tunnelling diodes, offering unique, unclonable device identities at the nanoscale with simple, resource-efficient measurements.

Contribution

It demonstrates how quantum confinement in RTDs can generate unique, secure device signatures, surpassing classical UNO and PUF limitations.

Findings

Each RTD has a distinct tunnelling spectrum due to nanostructure variations.

Quantum confinement provides robust security at room temperature.

The method requires minimal resources and simple electronic structures.

Abstract

Modern technology unintentionally provides resources that enable the trust of everyday interactions to be undermined. Some authentication schemes address this issue using devices that give unique outputs in response to a challenge. These signatures are generated by hard-to-predict physical responses derived from structural characteristics, which lend themselves to two different architectures, known as unique objects (UNOs) and physically unclonable functions (PUFs). The classical design of UNOs and PUFs limits their size and, in some cases, their security. Here we show that quantum confinement lends itself to the provision of unique identities at the nanoscale, by using fluctuations in tunnelling measurements through quantum wells in resonant tunnelling diodes (RTDs). This provides an uncomplicated measurement of identity without conventional resource limitations whilst providing robust security. The confined energy levels are highly sensitive to the specific nanostructure within each RTD, resulting in a distinct tunnelling spectrum for every device, as they contain a unique and unpredictable structure that is presently impossible to clone. This new class of authentication device operates with few resources in simple electronic structures above room temperature.