Overcoming the quantum limit of optical amplification in monolithic waveguides.

Ye, Zhichao; Zhao, Ping; Twayana, Krishna; Karlsson, Magnus; Torres-Company, Victor; Andrekson, Peter A · Sci Adv · 2021

basic_science · Level V

Where this comes from

Abstract

Optical amplifiers are essential in numerous photonic applications. Parametric amplifiers, relying on a nonlinear material to create amplification, are uniquely promising as they can amplify without generating excess noise. Here, we demonstrate amplification based on the third-order nonlinearity in a single chip while, in addition, reporting a noise figure significantly below the conventional quantum limit when operated in phase-sensitive mode. Our results show the potential of nanophotonics for realizing continuous-wave parametric amplification that can enable applications in optical communications, signal processing, and quantum optics across a wide range of frequencies.