ARCTIC - Scalable cryogenic control technology for quantum processors

The rise of quantum technology has opened the eyes of the ICT industry with respect to cryogenics. It is considered an enabler bringing in quantum functionalities and enhanced system performance and we are observing a massive growth of cryogenics from coolers to cryogenic electronics and photonics. ARCTIC (Advanced Research on Cryogenic Technologies for Innovative Computing) is a joint effort of top European RTOs, industrial fabrication facilities, and leading application partners (23 industrial among which 14 SMEs, 7 RTO, 6 academic), sharing the vision to take a joint EU step towards the era of cryogenic classical and quantum microsystems. We aim to close the gap between qubit research and interfacing control machinery, highly needed for scaled-up quantum systems. The main goal of ArCTIC is to develop scalable cryogenic ICT microsystems and control technology for quantum processors. The technologies developed will have applications in many fields from sensing to communication, leading to important cross-fertilization that will strengthen the forming European ecosystem on cryogenic classical and quantum microsystems. ARCTIC will advance semiconductor technologies and materials, and tailor these for QT requirements and cryogenic applications. Multi-scale physics and data-driven models, cryogenic PDK modelling, device characterization, circuit design activities will support the development of cryogenic microelectronics. We will develop quantum processor platforms and broaden the applicability of microelectronic devices and circuits for cryogenic operation by developing cryo-compatible ultra-low loss substrates and thin-films, microelectronic and photonic circuits, semiconductor packaging and heterogeneous-integration techniques and benchmark the developed technologies. Scientific and Industrial ARCTIC-demonstrators and applications are driving our developments enabling the European industry to maintain and expand its leading edge in semiconductor components and processes and QT and strengthen sustainable manufacturing technologies.

Fraunhofer IPMS takes part in the European project ARCTIC where the consortium will advance cryogenic technologies to promote quantum computing, cold CMOS computing and space applications. IPMS will focus on the electrical characterization and modelling of bipolar and CMOS transistors and memory elements at cryogenic temperatures. An emphasis will lie on high frequency, noise and defect characterization and modelling of transistors and the development of non-volatile ferroelectric memories.