Flexible entanglement-distribution network with an AlGaAs chip for secure communications

This paper demonstrates a scalable, flexible entanglement distribution network using an on-chip telecom-wavelength broadband entangled photon source and flexible-grid wavelength division multiplexing. The system achieves reconfigurable entanglement distribution among up to 8 users, benchmarked using quantum key distribution (QKD). Results show low error and high secret key generation rates across various frequency channels, over both symmetric and asymmetric metropolitan-distance fiber links, including finite-size effects. Bandwidth allocation adaptation showcases the network's flexibility, highlighting its potential for scalable quantum network architectures.

Félicien Appas, Florent Baboux, Maria I. Amanti, Aristide Lemaître, Fabien Boitier, Eleni Diamanti, Sara Ducci