Machine-readable universal data format for bidirectional reflectance distribution function and BiRDview—An open-source web-based application for viewing and comparing bidirectional reflectance data

16 pags., 6 figs. -- JEL Classification O31, O32Modern studies of bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) and its applications using data and machine-driven science require formatting of BRDF data according to Findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable (FAIR) data principles. As a solution a FAIR universal BRDF file-format based on Java Script Object Notation (JSON) is proposed. JSON principles as well as file structure are explained and examples are given. Automatic validation of universal BRDF file format is realized with the help of JSON schema. Furthermore, the source code and accompanying documentation are presented in dedicated supporting material files. It is expected that after its wide adoption, the proposed BRDF file format will enhance collaboration between different research groups and benefit machine-driven science. The uptake is facilitated by introducing a BiRDview—a modern open-source web-based application for BRDF visualization.This work has been done in the frame of the projects16NRM08 BiRD and 18SIB03 BxDiff, that have receivedfunding from the EMPIR programme co-financed by theParticipating States and from the European Union's Hori-zon 2020 research and innovation programme. The work has also been supported by the Academy of Finland Flag-ship Programme, Photonics Research and Innovation(PREIN), decision number: 32016

Liquid nitrogen cryostat for predictable quantum efficient detectors

We present the design and testing of a cryostat to be used with induced junction photodiodes of the Predictable Quantum Efficient Detector (PQED). Long-term reflectance measurements indicate that possible ice growth on the photodiodes at the temperature of liquid nitrogen (LN) is significantly reduced from earlier PQED cryostat designs.Peer reviewe

Development of primary reference facilities and measurement comparison of standard artifacts for the bidirectional transmittance distribution function

To determine the bidirectional transmittance distribution function (BTDF) of diffusely transmitting materials, two new primary facilities have been developed at the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) and Aalto University (Aalto). A detailed description of both facilities and the different approaches used are presented in this paper. The performance of both facilities is compared by determining the BTDF of two different diffuser types in both in-plane and out-of-plane bidirectional geometries at four different wavelengths in the visible spectral range. Due to delayed completion of PTB’s primary facility, the measured BTDF values are compared between Aalto’s primary facility and another PTB setup, whose measurement scales are successfully transferred to PTB’s primary facility by an internal comparison. A thorough analysis of the measurement uncertainty is presented, leading to a combined k = 1 standard uncertainty of 0.8%-1.2% for PTB’s primary facility and 1.3%-1.7% for Aalto’s primary facility. The BTDF results obtained agree well within their expanded k = 2 uncertainty. This indirect bilateral comparison shows that Aalto’s and PTB’s new facilities are suited as primary reference setups for the determination of the BTDF. These studies also reveal action points to improved measurement capabilities and for a reduction of the measurement uncertainty, depending on the type of diffuser under test.</p

European coordinated metrological effort for quantum cryptography

Quantum Key Distribution, a fundamental component of quantum secure communication that exploits quantum states and resources for communication protocols, can future-proof the security of digital communications, when if advanced quantum computing systems and mathematical advances render current algorithmic cryptography insecure. A QKD system relies on the integration of quantum physical devices, as quantum sources, quantum channels and quantum detectors, in order to generate a true random (unconditionally secure) cryptographic key between two remote parties connected through a quantum channel. The gap between QKD implemented with ideal and real devices can be exploited to attack real systems, unless appropriate countermeasures are implemented. Characterization of real devices and countermeasure is necessary to guarantee security. Free-space QKD systems can provide secure communication to remote parties of the globe, while QKD systems based on entanglement are intrinsically less vulnerable to attack. Metrology to characterize the optical components of these systems is required. Actually, the "Optical metrology for quantum-enhanced secure telecommunication" Project (MIQC2) is steering the metrological effort for Quantum Cryptography in the European region in order to accelerate the development and commercial uptake of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technologies. Aim of the project is the development of traceable measurement techniques, apparatus, and protocols that will underpin the characterisation and validation of the performance and quantum-safe security of such systems, essential steps towards standardization and certification of practical implementations of quantum-based technologies.Peer reviewe

A reference material with close to Lambertian reflectance and fluorescence emission profiles

Fluorescent brightening agents are widely used in various industries to enhance the appearance of materials. The angular profiles of emission and reflectance of fluorescent surfaces have been shown to deviate from Lambertian behaviour, however, in industry and calibration facilities single geometry measurements are often used, which requires assumptions to be made on the angular distributions. In addition, the angular distribution of reflectance has been shown to deviate from that of fluorescence. In this work, it is shown that the angular distribution of reflectance is dependent on the excitation wavelength and the effect is explained by qualitative and quantitative models. These angular and spectral effects may cause measurement errors when single geometry bidirectional measurements are carried out. The angular distributions can be taken into account by using goniometrical measurements, which however, result in increased calibration time and cost. Alternatively, a reference material could be used where the angular dependencies are minimised. In this work, a novel material is presented which demonstrates more Lambertian emission and reflectance profiles than conventional polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) based materials and a smaller dependence of angular reflectance on the absorbance of the sample

Metrology for industrial quantum communications: The MIQC project

The 'Metrology for Industrial Quantum Communication Technologies' project (MIQC) is a metrology framework that fosters development and market take-up of quantum communication technologies and is aimed at achieving maximum impact for the European industry in this area. MIQC is focused on quantum key distribution (QKD) technologies, the most advanced quantum-based technology towards practical application. QKD is a way of sending cryptographic keys with absolute security. It does this by exploiting the ability to encode in a photon's degree of freedom specific quantum states that are noticeably disturbed if an eavesdropper trying to decode it is present in the communication channel. The MIQC project has started the development of independent measurement standards and definitions for the optical components of QKD system, since one of the perceived barriers to QKD market success is the lack of standardization and quality assurance