Scalable platform for nanocrystal-based quantum electronics

TL;DR

This paper introduces a scalable platform combining microtomy and nanowire growth to produce large arrays of nanocrystals for quantum electronic devices, demonstrating quantum effects and potential for quantum technology applications.

Contribution

The authors develop a novel, scalable fabrication platform using microtomy and vapor-liquid-solid growth for deterministic nanocrystal transfer and device fabrication.

Findings

Successful fabrication of quantum devices on InAs nanowires

Observation of conductance quantization and single-electron charging

Platform enables design of semiconductor/superconductor quantum networks

Abstract

Unlocking the full potential of nanocrystals in electronic devices requires scalable and deterministic manufacturing techniques. A platform offering promising alternative paths to scalable production is microtomy, the technique of cutting thin lamellae with large areas containing embedded nanostructures. This platform has so far not been used for fabrication of electronic quantum devices. Here, we combine microtomy with vapor-liquid-solid growth of III/V nanowires to create a scalable platform that can deterministically transfer large arrays of single and fused nanocrystals - offering single unit control and free choice of target substrate. We fabricate electronic devices on cross-sectioned InAs nanowires with good yield and demonstrate their ability to exhibit quantum phenomena such as conductance quantization, single electron charging, and wave interference. Finally, we devise how the platform can host rationally designed semiconductor/superconductor networks relevant for emerging quantum technologies.