Direct generation of spatially entangled qudits using quantum nonlinear optical holography

Nonlinear holography shapes the amplitude and phase of generated new harmonics using nonlinear processes. Classical nonlinear holography influenced many fields in optics, from information storage, demultiplexing of spatial information, and all-optical control of accelerating beams. Here, we extend the concept of nonlinear ho-lography to the quantum regime. We directly shape the spatial quantum correlations of entangled photon pairs in two-dimensional patterned nonlinear photonic crystals using spontaneous parametric down conversion, without any pump shaping. The generated signal-idler pair obeys a parity conservation law that is governed by the nonlinear crystal. Furthermore, the quantum states exhibit quantum correlations and violate the Clauser-Horne-Shimony-Holt inequality, thus enabling entanglement-based quantum key distribution. Our demonstration paves the way for controllable on-chip quantum optics schemes using the high-dimensional spatial degree of freedom.

Automated summary

Nonlinear holography shapes the amplitude and phase of new harmonics using nonlinear processes, which has significant impact in various areas of optics. In this study, the concept of nonlinear holography is extended to the quantum regime, where the spatial quantum correlations of entangled photon pairs are directly shaped in two-dimensional patterned nonlinear photonic crystals. These quantum states exhibit quantum correlations and violate the Clauser-Horne-Shimony-Holt inequality, enabling entanglement-based quantum key distribution. This demonstration opens up possibilities for controllable on-chip quantum optics schemes using spatial degree of freedom.