High-Q/V two-dimensional photonic crystals cavities in 3C-SiC

Abstract

Solid state quantum emitters are between the most promising candidates for single photon generation in quantum technologies. However, they suffer from decoherence effects which limit their efficiency and indistinguishability. For instance, the radiation emitted in the zero phonon line (ZPL) of most color centers is on the order of a few percent (e.g. $NV^-$ centers in Diamond, $V_{Si}V_{C}$ in SiC) limiting the emission rate of single photons as well as the efficiency. At the same time, reliable interfacing with photons in an integrated manner still remains a challenge on both diamond and SiC technology. Here we develop photonic crystal cavities with Q factors in the order of 7,100 in 3C SiC. We discuss how this high confinement cavity can significantly enhance the fraction of photons emitted in the ZPL and improve their characteristics. In particular, the increased efficiency and improved indistinguishability can open the way to quantum technologies in the solid state.