kiutra’s Involvement in Four Cutting-Edge R&D Projects
At kiutra, we specialize in providing cutting-edge tools, services and integrated platforms for cryogen-free sub-Kelvin cooling. Our offerings empower researchers and industry professionals to perform low-temperature experiments more efficiently, speeding up the progress of quantum hardware development and enabling the widespread adoption of quantum technologies in industrial applications.
This post shares how kiutra is playing a dynamic role in an ever-expanding array of cryogenics and quantum technology research initiatives.
Project 1: MUNIQC-SC
kiutra is part of the MUNIQC-SC consortium, aiming to develop a quantum computer demonstrator based on superconducting circuits. Quantum computers, using qubits instead of classical bits, hold the potential to solve complex problems beyond the capabilities of classical computers, such as simulating molecular processes for drug discovery and optimizing battery storage systems.
kiutra’s role in the project is to advance cryogenics by developing cryo-electronic component characterization tools. We plan to use unique magnetic cooling technology to create helium-3-free cryogenic cooling systems with fast cooldown times, enabling rapid testing of superconducting microwave devices and related electronics below 1 K. This will accelerate the development of crucial components like control electronics and qubits for superconducting quantum computers.
One thing to note is that the hardware and software elements of our existing L-Type Rapid platform are undergoing development and enhancement to either facilitate or simplify the low-temperature characterization of cryoelectronic components for quantum computers. Additionally, throughout the ongoing project, evaluations are being carried out on components that the partners will be integrating into the project.
Project 2: SPROUT with Delft Circuits
In collaboration with Delft Circuits, a Dutch quantum company focused on producing top-notch microwave cables and components for quantum computers. It has received investments from High-Tech Gründerfonds, Scholt Group, and QuVest. kiutra is involved in the SPROUT project, which aims to create a scalable platform for quantum technologies by addressing the complexity of current cryogenic cooling solutions. The goal is to build a turnkey cooling platform that simplifies the development and operation of quantum hardware, as though substantial advancements have occurred in quantum effect research, the complexity of existing cryogenic cooling solutions hampers their integration and scaling for commercial applications.
kiutra and Delft Circuits intend to develop a sub-Kelvin platform based on cryogen-free magnetic cooling, coupled with multi-channel electrical access. This platform will support various quantum applications, including quantum electronics and quantum optics. The challenge lies in managing the heat generated by integrated components, including cryocoolers, ADR cooling media, superconducting magnets, and more.
As in the words of Daan Kuitenbrouwer, COO of Delft Circuits:
“The project aims to develop and integrate a high-density cabling from Delft Circuits including superconducting i/o integrated into the refrigerator. We believe that the partnership with kiutra will bring value to the whole cryogenic industry as well as the quantum technology.”
Project 3: MATQu (Materials for Quantum Computing)
kiutra is part of the Materials for Quantum Computing (MATQu) consortium, focused on establishing a European value chain for superconducting qubits. The project aims to validate technology options for the industrial fabrication of Superconducting Josephson Junctions (SJJs), a key component in scalable universal superconducting quantum computers.
MATQu brings together various European entities, including large enterprises, research organizations, and SMEs, to develop infrastructure for accelerated hardware development in quantum technologies. Kiutra’s role involves developing tools and methods for the characterization and high-throughput screening of SJJs in an industrial environment.
Professor Rüdiger Quay, project coordinator from Fraunhofer IAF, puts it this way:
“MATQu” aims to reduce this variability among qubit components. Researchers will investigate the impact on device variability of all material parameters and process steps. For this purpose, the consortium will gather broad knowledge and experience with developing process steps and designing experiments that allow reducing the impact of specific process parameters on device performance. “While we do not expect the same integration level as classical computer chips for the next 5 to 10 years, we will certainly take a big step towards variability reduction in superconducting qubits.”
Project 4: MILLENION
Finally, kiutra is involved in the MILLENION project, a collaboration involving 14 academic and industrial partners across Europe to advance trapped-ion quantum computers from the laboratory to industrial applications. Building upon its precursor program, AQTION, which conceptualized and operationalized the world’s first quantum computer housed in industry-standard 19 inch server racks, MILLENION aims to construct a scalable quantum computer capable of controlling 1000 qubits.
The project gathers leading science teams responsible for setting up trapped-ion quantum computers with commercial leaders specializing in various fields including laser technology, optical design, cryogenic technology, control electronics, and computer architectures. This collaborative effort aims to maintain and further bolster European leadership in the quantum information sector in alignment with the strategic objectives of the FET Quantum Technologies Flagship.
Within the broader European quantum ecosystem, MILLENION fosters collaboration and innovation through its extensive connections, both academic and industrial, facilitating the emerging quantum industry in Europe. The project provides a nexus of academic expertise and commercial products to meet the experimental and theoretical needs of this burgeoning sector. It has secured the endorsement of significant European industrial stakeholders in quantum technologies like Airbus, Bosch, Covestro (Bayer), and the Quantum Industry Consortium, showcasing its integral role in advancing European Quantum Technologies.
Conclusion
All these projects share a common focus on advancing cryogenics to facilitate quantum technology development. kiutra’s expertise in cryogenic cooling and measurement technology plays a pivotal role in enabling the rapid testing and characterization of critical quantum components, such as superconducting circuits and qubits. By developing innovative cryogenics solutions and infrastructure, kiutra is contributing to the progress of quantum computing, quantum electronics, and the broader quantum technology ecosystem in Europe.