Self-Assembled Monolayer Oxide Removal for Qubit Coherence

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing quantum devices and manufacturing processes fail to effectively remove oxides from quantum devices and prevent their reformation, which significantly impacts the coherence time and lifespan of superconducting components like qubits.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the removal of oxide layers from qubits and superconducting components using etchants like dilute hydrogen fluoride, followed by the deposition of self-assembled monolayers to prevent oxidation and stabilize the surfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If oxide layers are present on qubits and superconducting components, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the coherence time and lifespan of the quantum device deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoherence timeVSAvoidoxidation prevention process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing oxide removal and monolayer deposition during the quantum device fabrication process, specifically after superconducting layer deposition and before final device assembly. This timing ensures oxide prevention is built into the manufacturing workflow rather than added as a separate post-processing step, thereby improving coherence time without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses self-assembled monolayers as intermediary protective layers between the superconducting components and the oxidizing environment. These monolayers act as mediators that prevent direct contact between oxygen and the quantum device surfaces, thereby protecting coherence time while requiring only standard deposition techniques

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Duration of action of stationary object

If oxide layers are removed and monolayers are deposited to prevent re-oxidation, then the lifespan of the quantum device is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovelifespanVSAvoidmanufacturing process
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs self-assembled monolayers that automatically form organized protective structures on the quantum device surfaces through spontaneous self-assembly. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex controlled deposition processes, as the monolayers organize themselves into effective protective barriers using standard deposition techniques, thereby extending lifespan without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes in the deposition process, specifically controlling deposition temperature and ambient conditions, to enable self-assembly of the monolayers. By optimizing these parameters, the process achieves effective oxide prevention using relatively simple deposition equipment and procedures, thus improving lifespan while limiting increases in manufacturing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach improves the coherence time and lifespan of qubits by preventing re-oxidation and stabilizing the surfaces, thereby enhancing the performance and longevity of quantum devices.

Implementation Method 1

self assembled monolayer formed on the qubit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSelf-assembly: Self-Assembly

Implementation Method 2

depositing a self assembled monolayer on the qubit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdsorption: Adsorption

Implementation Method 3

removing one or more oxide layers from a qubit formed on a substrate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChemical etching:

Data Source

PatentUS20240365686A1Self assembled monolayer formed on a quantum device
Publication Date: 2024.10.31 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION
  • US20240365686A1 patent drawing
  • US20240365686A1 patent drawing
  • US20240365686A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Devices, methods, and/or computer-implemented methods that can facilitate formation of a self assembled monolayer on a quantum device are provided. According to an embodiment, a device can comprise a qubit formed on a substrate. The device can further comprise a self assembled monolayer formed on the qubit.