Quantum sensor monitors cancer treatments with single photon

Developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo's Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) in Ontario, Canada, the sensors – claimed to be the first of their kind - are based on semiconductor nanowires that can detect single particles of light with high-timing resolution, speed and efficiency over a wavelength range from ultraviolet to near-infrared.

The team at Waterloo claim also that the technology can significantly improve quantum communication and remote sensing capabilities. Similar technologies are reported to have peak efficiencies above 90 per cent and timing jitter of <30ps, but are not widely used due to their cost and cryogenic operation.

"A sensor needs to be very efficient at detecting light. In applications like quantum radar, surveillance, and night time operation, very few particles of light return to the device," said principal investigator Michael Reimer, an IQC faculty member and assistant professor in the Faculty of Engineering's electrical and computer engineering department. "In these cases, you want to be able to detect every single photon coming in."