European scientists are working on creating a quantum computer using diamonds and silicon carbide that can operate at room temperature. This project, known as SPINUS, is funded by a €10 million consortium and aims to develop quantum simulators with over 50 qubits and quantum computers with over 10 qubits within the next five years.
The innovative approach of using nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in synthetic diamonds allows for the creation of programmable qubits without the need for extreme cooling. These NV centers provide unique properties for quantum computing, enabling efficient processing of quantum data.
By controlling the spin of electrons in the NV centers, scientists can store and process quantum information in a more efficient manner compared to traditional computers. This technology has the potential to revolutionize fields such as drug discovery, optimization, and materials science by providing solutions to complex problems that regular computers struggle to solve.
The SPINUS project aims to demonstrate quantum simulators with more than 50 qubits and quantum computers with over ten qubits. Additionally, the team plans to scale up to over 1000 and 100 qubits, respectively, within five years after the project concludes in 2027.
The ability to operate at room temperature and store quantum information for long periods makes the spin defects in diamonds a promising candidate for building scalable quantum processors. The SPINUS project is developing innovative strategies to build diamond-based quantum computers and improve control and readout techniques for the NV centers.
The SPINUS project brings together top research institutions and quantum technology experts from across Europe to work on this groundbreaking technology. With the potential to revolutionize areas like cryptography, AI, and materials science, the development of a scalable quantum computer using diamonds could lead to significant advancements in various fields.
Overall, the SPINUS project represents a significant step forward in the field of quantum computing, offering new possibilities for practical and scalable quantum processors that can address some of the most challenging problems faced by industries and researchers.