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QLASS, towards computers that exploit quantum photonics

The potential of the new technology will be tested on the design of lithium batteries

Quantum computer component
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Politecnico di Milano coordinates QLASS project, aiming to exploit the quantum properties of photons, the elementary particles that make up light, for the design of quantum computers

Quantum computers are computing devices that utilise the properties of quantum mechanics to accelerate the resolution of numerous computational problems. No quantum computers currently exist that are large and accurate enough to solve problems of industrial importance. A global effort, involving governments, universities, start-ups and large technology companies, is underway to build one. The QLASS project, which has received €6 million in funding from the European Union, under the “Quantum Flagship” program, will last 3 years.

The QLASS project will make an important contribution to the development of versatile modular components that can be widely used in industry and research, as well as to training a new generation of quantum technology experts.

Giulia Acconcia, Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, coordinator of the QLASS project

To demonstrate the potential of the new hardware and software, the photonic quantum computer will be used to design high-capacity, efficient lithium batteries, a key area of research due to their wide range of applications, from smartphones to e-mobility, yet a highly complex challenge.