Scientists at the University of Surrey have introduced a novel qubit design intended to address a significant challenge in quantum computing: minimizing error rates as systems scale up. The proposed approach leverages superfluid helium, which exhibits distinctive quantum characteristics, to develop a qubit with reduced sensitivity to environmental disturbances that commonly affect existing quantum computers.
Quantum computing systems depend on qubits to process information in ways unavailable to classical computers. Current leading systems primarily employ superconducting circuits, which are particularly vulnerable to electromagnetic noise and stray electrical charges. These small disturbances can compromise quantum information storage, and as additional qubits are incorporated into systems, managing errors becomes progressively more challenging, positioning scalability as a central problem in the field.
The research team introduced the Superfluid Helium Oscillator Quantum device, or SHOQ, detailed in a study published in npj Quantum Information. This represents the first reported qubit design based on superfluid technology. The device would utilize charge-neutral superfluid helium-3, a liquid helium form capable of flowing without friction. Because the material carries no electrical charge, the design could offer inherent protection against certain electromagnetic noise sources. Calculations indicate the SHOQ device might achieve error rates approximately 100 times lower than traditional superconducting qubits.
The research team emphasized that while individual components of this concept have been explored previously, this work constitutes the first integration of these elements into a microfluidic device with specifications enabling qubit functionality. Rather than replacing current quantum hardware, researchers suggest the SHOQ device could complement superconducting quantum technology within hybrid systems. Another potential application involves using the device as quantum memory, where superfluid-based qubits store quantum information while other components perform calculations.
The team now intends to construct a prototype to validate theoretical predictions through experimentation. The effort receives support from an Innovate UK Advancing Ambition Award. Operating at extremely low temperatures will be necessary, though previous experiments with superfluid helium-3 have successfully achieved required conditions. The project involved collaboration between the University of Surrey and Northwestern University.
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