Researchers at the Technion have, for the first time, identified a new type of quantum entanglement at the nanoscale—photon entanglement by total angular momentum (TAM). Unlike conventional spin (SAM) or orbital (OAM) angular momentum, TAM emerges when photons interact with nanostructures comparable in size to the wavelength of light. This discovery broadens our understanding of quantum mechanics at the nanoscale and opens new avenues for the miniaturization of quantum technologies.
To generate entangled photon pairs, the team used plasmonic nanostructures and applied a quantum imaging technique to detect correlations in the near field—where traditional analysis methods fail. They found that the structure of TAM entanglement differs from well-known models, making it a promising tool for use in photonic quantum chips and information transfer systems.
This research paves the way for the development of ultra-compact quantum devices, including processors, secure communication channels, and sensors that operate using TAM. These technologies could be more resistant to decoherence and allow for more precise light manipulation in confined spaces.
The work was supported by Israeli and international scientific foundations and carried out using the Technion’s advanced research infrastructure. This breakthrough not only deepens fundamental scientific knowledge but also sets the stage for innovative applications in quantum communication and computing.
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