Single-photon quantum optics with giant-atom waveguide quantum electrodynamics

Quantum optics has traditionally relied on the dipole approximation, which assumes that atoms are point-like relative to the wavelength of light involved [1]. In 2014, researchers demonstrated that this limit can be surpassed by employing superconducting qubits and surface acoustic waves [2]. This advancement has stimulated the development of new theories within the emerging field of giant-atom waveguide quantum electrodynamics. This study investigates quantum transport phenomena that occur when wave-guided single photons interact with periodic chains of giant atoms under various coupling schemes. Particular attention is given to scenarios where single-photon transport and band properties diverge from those observed in non-giant, or “small-atom,” chains [3]. The primary applications anticipated for this research are in long-distance quantum communication and quantum networking.

[1] C. Gerry & P. Knight; Introductory Quantum Optics, Cambridge University Press.

[2] A. Kockum; Quantum optics with giant atoms—the first five years, International Symposium on Mathematics, Quantum Theory, and Cryptography (Vol. 33, pp. 125-146), Springer.

[3] I. Mirza, J. Hoskins, and J. Schotland; Chirality, band structure, and localization in waveguide quantum electrodynamics, Phy. Rev. A 96 (5), 053804.