Quantum Electro-Optic Detector Technology (QuEOD)

A consortium of UK universities and companies is building a new type of short-wave infrared (SWIR) light detector that can capture individual photons and time their arrival with extreme precision. Current SWIR detectors are too slow or too noisy for emerging quantum technologies. Quantum computers, secure communication networks, and advanced sensing systems all rely on detecting single particles of light at specific moments. Existing technology cannot do this reliably in the SWIR wavelength range, which is critical for many quantum applications. The QuEOD project aims to solve this by developing two complementary detector materials—cadmium mercury telluride (CMT) and gallium antimonide (GaSb)—and the manufacturing processes needed to produce them at scale. If successful, the project will create a UK-based supply chain for these specialised detectors, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. The immediate impact is on quantum technology development: better detectors mean faster, more secure quantum communications and more sensitive quantum sensors. Longer term, the same detector technology could improve LIDAR for autonomous vehicles, enhance medical imaging that uses infrared light, and strengthen defence and environmental monitoring systems. The project is applied and commercially focused, with industrial partners already planning to manufacture and sell the resulting devices.