The generation, manipulation, storage, and detection of single photons play a
central role in emerging photonic quantum information technology. Individual
photons serve as flying qubits and transmit the quantum information at high
speed and with low losses, for example between individual nodes of quantum
networks. Due to the laws of quantum mechanics, quantum communication is
fundamentally tap-proof, which explains the enormous interest in this modern
information technology. On the other hand, stationary qubits or photonic states
in quantum computers can potentially lead to enormous increases in performance
through parallel data processing, to outperform classical computers in specific
tasks when quantum advantage is achieved. Here, we discuss in depth the great
potential of quantum dots (QDs) in photonic quantum information technology. In
this context, QDs form a key resource for the implementation of quantum
communication networks and photonic quantum computers because they can generate
single photons on-demand. Moreover, QDs are compatible with the mature
semiconductor technology, so that they can be integrated comparatively easily
into nanophotonic structures, which form the basis for quantum light sources
and integrated photonic quantum circuits. After a thematic introduction, we
present modern numerical methods and theoretical approaches to device design
and the physical description of quantum dot devices. We then present modern
methods and technical solutions for the epitaxial growth and for the
deterministic nanoprocessing of quantum devices based on QDs. Furthermore, we
present the most promising concepts for quantum light sources and photonic
quantum circuits that include single QDs as active elements and discuss
applications of these novel devices in photonic quantum information technology.
We close with an overview of open issues and an outlook on future developments.Comment: Copyright 2023 Optica Publishing Group. One print or electronic copy
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