Quantum technology could transform the way we detect radio signals with more sensitive RF sensors

A new agreement signed between an American institue and an Australian university is set to explore quantum radio frequency (RF) sensing, sensemaking, which is quantum signal interpretation and analytics, and related technologies.

The new three-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) is signed by Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) and Australia-based Adelaide University.

The joint research team launched first-phase, hands-on evaluations of superconducting quantum RF sensors for signals intelligence applications at the Jesper Munch Quantum Laboratories at Adelaide University in South Australia. Signals intelligence is the field of collecting, intercepting and analyzing electronic signals to support defense, communications and emergency response.

“Unlike conventional antennas that get bulkier in size as frequencies get lower, quantum RF device size is independent of frequency,” said Staff Engineer Michael Quinn, who leads quantum RF research and development in SwRI’s Defense and Intelligence Solutions Division offices in Warner Robins, Georgia.

“These systems achieve broad coverage, kilohertz to terahertz, with the same compact hardware. They provide more critical information and take up less space, which is a major advantage, especially for defense and intelligence missions where size, weight and power are critical considerations.”

RF devices provide broad coverage

The team revealed that in superconducting materials, RF signals vastly affect the dynamics of electrons, the negatively charged building blocks of atoms. Ultrasensitive, longer-range quantum RF sensing devices use changes in electron trajectory to extract more information out of the RF environment than conventional antennas. Precision circuits made of superconducting materials produce raw data that yields accurate signal measurements.

Superconducting quantum RF systems leverage the unique properties of superconducting materials, enabling highly sensitive detection and characterization of signals across a broad electromagnetic spectrum. Compact quantum systems offer the potential to replace bulky antennas, especially aboard military ships and aircraft with limited space.

Adelaide University’s quantum laboratories include a state-of-the-art molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) system that “grows” advanced superconductor and quantum materials one atomic layer at a time, like a 3D printer. The MBE transforms raw materials into a Superconducting QUantum Interference Device (SQUID) supercooled to -452.47 degrees Fahrenheit to activate superconducting properties and an RF wave response, according to a press release.

New material architectures

Researchers are exploring new material architectures designed to raise SQUID operating temperatures, reduce cooling requirements and improve portability and operational practicality. The collaboration unites Adelaide University’s expertise in superconducting quantum materials and sensor development with SwRI’s strengths in advanced RF engineering, signals processing and operational applications, as per the release.

“The SwRI team tested and assessed selected performance metrics of the superconducting quantum RF technology developed by Adelaide University,” said Professor Giuseppe C. Tettamanzi, director of the Jesper Munch Quantum Laboratories and leader of Adelaide University’s superconducting quantum technologies research program.

“By combining our complementary expertise, Adelaide University and SwRI are accelerating the development and maturation of quantum RF technologies with the potential to address the challenges of increasingly congested electromagnetic environments and complex operational scenarios. This collaboration demonstrates the value of deep scientific alliances between Australia and the United States in advancing technologies critical to future security and economic prosperity.”