Integrated Ring-based Quantum Key Distribution with Weak Measurement Enhanced Fiber-Optic Sensing Disturbance Magnitude and Location

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel integrated system combining ring-based quantum key distribution with fiber-optic sensing and disturbance localization, enhancing secure communication and network self-diagnosis capabilities over long distances.

Contribution

The work presents the first integration of quantum key distribution with weak measurement enhanced sensing and disturbance localization in a Sagnac-loop system.

Findings

Achieves 22.4 kbps key rate over 30 km fiber loop.

Detects dynamic disturbances down to 100 Hz frequency.

Resolves gravitational changes as small as 100 g.

Abstract

The deep integration of quantum communication and fiber-optic sensing is pivotal for the development of next-generation multifunctional and highly reliable secure information infrastructure. Here, we present a Sagnac-loop integrated system (SLIS) that, for the first time, combines ring-based quantum key distribution (QKD) with fiber-based weak measurement (WM) enhanced sensing and disturbance localization capabilities. In the event of communication interruption due to external disturbances, the SLIS seamlessly switches to perception system, employing interference measurement and WM techniques to monitor channel disturbances. By integrating null-frequencies localization (NFL) mode, the system precisely determines the disturbance location, enabling rapid identification of security vulnerabilities along the link. Experimental results demonstrate that, over a 30 km Sagnac loop channel, the SLIS achieves a raw key generation rate of 22.4 kbps with stable operation and clear scalability toward network expansion. In terms of perception performance, the SLIS exhibits strong capability for both dynamic and quasi-static disturbances. For dynamic perturbations, the system detects transient impacts and PZT-driven frequency variations down to 100 Hz, and enables long-distance localization via NFL alignment, with improved localization performance as the disturbance position moves farther away along the loop. For quasi-static disturbances, gravitational changes as small as 100 g are resolved, corresponding to a time-delay variation of 9.81 as. This work provides a novel technical pathway toward self-diagnosing, robust quantum networks through integrated communication and sensing functionalities.