Materials Challenges for Trapped-Ion Quantum Computers

TL;DR

This paper reviews materials challenges in developing integrated trapped-ion quantum computers, emphasizing the need for materials research to reduce noise and improve system integration for practical quantum computing.

Contribution

It highlights the materials requirements and challenges for integrating components in trapped-ion systems and suggests collaborative strategies for materials development to advance quantum computing.

Findings

Identification of key materials issues hindering progress

Proposals for materials-based noise mitigation strategies

Recommendations for interdisciplinary collaboration

Abstract

Trapped-ion quantum information processors store information in atomic ions maintained in position in free space via electric fields. Quantum logic is enacted via manipulation of the ions' internal and shared motional quantum states using optical and microwave signals. While trapped ions show great promise for quantum-enhanced computation, sensing, and communication, materials research is needed to design traps that allow for improved performance by means of integration of system components, including optics and electronics for ion-qubit control, while minimizing the near-ubiquitous electric-field noise produced by trap-electrode surfaces. In this review, we consider the materials requirements for such integrated systems, with a focus on problems that hinder current progress toward practical quantum computation. We give suggestions for how materials scientists and trapped-ion technologists can work together to develop materials-based integration and noise-mitigation strategies to enable the next generation of trapped-ion quantum computers.