Quantum Metamaterials

Quantum metamaterials are artificial materials made of quantum coherent elements that can support controllable quantum states while maintaining global coherence. Their optical properties are determined by the synergy of the electromagnetic field modes and quantum effects of the constituent meta-atoms. The interest in quantum metamaterials has been particularly fueled by their potential for quantum computing architectures, encompassing the generation and manipulation of quantum states, implementation of quantum gates, and storage of quantum information. The constituent base of quantum metamaterials can include various components such as Josephson junctions, cold atoms, semiconductor quantum dots and wells, solid-state defects, photonic cavities, plasmonic and two-dimensional layered materials, making a bridge from the developments in fundamental quantum theory to advances in material science. Photonic and polaritonic quantum state engineering with entanglement involving various degrees of freedom, such as polarization and orbital angular momentum, appeals for prospects in on-chip secure quantum communication, ion trapping and quantum information processing. Incorporating topological concepts and leveraging machine learning optimization techniques enable the development of highly advanced integrated designs. Beyond quantum optics, there are emerging trends in the implementation of quantum metamaterials in the acoustic and phononic domains. They also hold promise in broader application areas, such as energy harvesting to enhance solar cell efficiencies and create novel thermoelectric materials, as well as in high-sensitivity sensing applications including quantum-enhanced imaging, spectroscopy, and the detection of weak electromagnetic fields. Progress in this research field drives innovations in technologies and has the potential to transform industries across multiple sectors.

Topics covered include, but are not limited to:

Applied Physics Reviews Editor

Chennupati Jagadish, Australian National University

Guest Editor

Daria Smirnova, Australian National University

About the Journal

Applied Physics Reviews (APR) features articles on important and current topics in experimental or theoretical research in applied physics or applications of physics to other branches of science and engineering. APR publishes the following types of articles:

• Original Research: An article reporting on an important and novel research study of high quality and general interest to the applied physics community.
• Reviews: This type of article can either be an authoritative, comprehensive review of established areas of applied physics, or a short timely review of recent advances in established fields or new and emerging areas of applied physics.