Controlling Quantum Mechanics using Earthquakes! At the Queen’s University SAW Lab, we examine how to use surface acoustic waves (SAWs) to create active quantum mechanical devices. By generating these “earthquakes on chip”, the same forces experienced in terrestrial earthquakes are applied to manipulate and control quantum semiconductor structures.
We have a new state of the art Nanofabrication Facility, where we can design and fabricate specialized SAW devices. We can perform high frequency (up to gigahertz) testing of the devices, and we specialize in optical characterization of the SAWs and in the spectroscopy of the quantum devices. We have a number of ongoing projects, including the design and fabrication of phononic crystal devices so that the SAWs can be precisely controlled.
