Exploring complex graphs using three-dimensional quantum walks of correlated photons

TL;DR

This paper introduces an experimental platform for simulating multi-particle quantum walks on complex 3D graphs using correlated photons in waveguide circuits, advancing quantum network research.

Contribution

It presents a novel method for realizing excitation dynamics of 3D networks with hybrid photon degrees of freedom in integrated photonics.

Findings

Demonstrated quantum walks on complex 3D graphs

Utilized hybrid spatial and polarization degrees of freedom

Paved the way for exploring fermionic dynamics in photonics

Abstract

Graph representations are a powerful concept for solving complex problems across natural science, as patterns of connectivity can give rise to a multitude of emergent phenomena. Graph-based approaches have proven particularly fruitful in quantum communication and quantum search algorithms in highly branched quantum networks. Here we introduce a new paradigm for the direct experimental realization of excitation dynamics associated with three-dimensional networks by exploiting the hybrid action of spatial and polarization degrees of freedom of photon pairs in complex waveguide circuits with tailored birefringence. This novel testbed for the experimental exploration of multi-particle quantum walks on complex, highly connected graphs paves the way towards exploiting the applicative potential of fermionic dynamics in integrated quantum photonics.