Integrated photonic platforms for quantum technology: a review

Quantum information processing has conceptually changed the way we process and transmit information. Our understanding of quantum physics, which explains the seemingly strange behavior of matter at the microscopic scales, has matured to the extent that we can now explore technologies based on the phenomenon. One such exciting application of quantum physics with far-reaching consequences is quantum computing. Quantum computing, which uses quantum bits (qubits) for information processing, has changed the way we process and transmit information in a fundamental way. Experiments suggest that the most successful candidates for realizing qubits are photons. Therefore, integrated photonic platforms play a crucial role in harnessing the potential of quantum technology. This paper surveys the various photonic platforms based on different materials for quantum information processing. The future of this technology depends on the successful materials that can be used to universally realize quantum devices, similar to silicon, which shaped the industry toward the end of the last century. While it would be hazardous to make definitive predictions about the quantum revolution, our overview of the current status of research on the various platforms based on the materials used could shed light on how the future of quantum computing could unfold.