Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft
Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft

Quantum Computing

Quantum computers have the potential to solve complex problems faster and more efficiently than conventional computers. Recent years have seen significant progress in the development of universal, fault-tolerant quantum computers. However, qubits are very susceptible to interference and coupling them with stability is a real technical challenge. The main hardware challenges lie in error mitigation and correction, and in scalability, cooling and infrastructure. The Fraunhofer institutes’ current fields of research range from quantum simulation in materials and life sciences to requirements for powerful, reliable hardware environments and programming quantum algorithms for industrial needs.

Where does quantum computing come into play?

Quantum computers can be used in a whole host of different applications, from developing new materials, optimizing logistics and traffic planning, and accelerating drug development at the molecular level to exploiting new opportunities in finance. When combined with machine learning and artificial intelligence, the technology promises significant progress.

Insights into Fraunhofer research

Hardware

 

© FZ Jülich

A German quantum computer

Under the umbrella of the QSolid project, 25 German research institutions and companies have come together to develop a German quantum computer based on superconducting quantum chips with reduced error rates.

 

© Fraunhofer IOF

Photonic quantum computer

Especially at a large scale, the photonic approach — which uses light particles (photons) as qubits — offers enormous advantages, as the functions required for the computing operations can be produced on a single chip using mature semiconductor manufacturing processes. The PhoQuant project aims to provide an advantage for calculations in applications of industrial relevance.

 

© Fraunhofer ITWM

Interview: Gold-rush fever in research

In this interview, Prof. Anita Schöbel and Dr. Pascal Halffmann from Fraunhofer ITWM shed light on the most important findings from quantum technology research, discuss the fascination that quantum physics holds and consider what expectations are realistic.

 

© MCQST / J. Greune

"SPINNING" project – Quantum computer based on spin qubits in diamond

In the SPINNING project, 28 national partners from science and industry are working on a compact, scalable quantum processor that is based on spin qubits in diamond and features lower cooling requirements, longer operating times and lower error rates.

 

© Getty Images / Wong Yu Liang

Developing hybrid quantum computing applications

Industrially relevant quantum computing (QC) applications are almost always of a hybrid nature – in other words, they use classic systems in combination with quantum circuits. In the EniQmA project, Fraunhofer and its partners aim to systematize this hybrid approach with specific goals in mind and to support industrial applications using software, methods and tools. 

 

© Fraunhofer EMFT/Bernd Müller

Wafer-based fabrication processes for superconducting qubits

Superconducting qubits are a promising technology in the development of powerful quantum computers. Fraunhofer is working on developing fabrication processes for superconducting qubits that enable scaling to over 100 or even 1,000 qubits.

 

Control technology for quantum processors

While research on qubits is long established, developing the control mechanisms for scalable systems is just as important, if not more so. The ARCTIC project brings together 36 partners from industry, science and leading research institutions to develop scalable cryogenic ICT microsystems and control technology for quantum processors.

 

Focus on scaling

Although currently still at an experimental stage in laboratories, it is hoped that quantum computers will soon be ready for everyday use. Scaling — that is, enlarging the computers involved — is an essential part of this process. Many computers only comprise a few qubits at present, but an extensive team of researchers from numerous institutions is looking to the medium term, developing the prototype of a 400-qubit quantum computer based on neutral atoms.

 

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Quantum computing for industry

The QuaST project is developing software and services that are specifically geared toward industrial problems. The project focuses on complex optimization problems such as scheduling, supply chain optimization and management forecasts.

 

Quantum-assisted AI for medical diagnostics

At the Bavarian Competence Center for Quantum Security and Data Science, Fraunhofer institutes are developing quantum-assisted AI for medical issues. Quantum computing promises significantly more data-efficient learning than conventional AI – especially in situations such as medical image classification, where little training data is available. The researchers have developed prototype solutions and presented them to an international audience.

 

© iStock / koto_feja

Programming language for the development of quantum algorithms

As demand for quantum computers increases, so does the need for powerful, user-friendly tools for programming. With Qrisp, Fraunhofer researchers have created a high-level programming language for creating and compiling quantum algorithms. Its structured programming model enables developers to write efficient and scalable quantum algorithms.

 

Algorithms for quantum annealing

In the Rymax project, Fraunhofer and its partners are developing a quantum annealer demonstrator based on Rydberg atoms: the Rymax One. Their focus is on the development of algorithms for quantum computing with HPC integration and benchmarking.

 

© Fraunhofer IAIS

Multi-drone pathfinding with industry partner THALES

In the future, drones will be able to carry out urgent deliveries of items such as medication. Classic computers can efficiently calculate the ideal path for individual drones. In cases where multiple drones are deployed, however, they have to take into account factors such as avoiding collisions, prioritizing and the possibility of no-fly zones. There are currently no efficient algorithms available for classic computers to do this. Using a combination of quantum optimization and reinforcement learning, Fraunhofer researchers are working with THALES to determine the ideal paths for all drones.

 

© Kompetenzzentrum Post-Quanten-Kryptografie

Quantum-safe: post-quantum cryptography

Quantum computing advancements pose a threat to today’s IT security as a whole, as established cryptographic processes can be cracked by quantum computers. Through its neutral and manufacturer-independent Competence Center for Post-Quantum Cryptography, Fraunhofer supports companies and public institutions in the switch to quantum-resistant cryptographic processes.