Innovative Phase-Matching Technique Enhances Josephson Traveling Wave Parametric Amplifiers

Recent research by Emil Rizvanov and colleagues presents a novel approach to enhancing the performance of Josephson Traveling Wave Parametric Amplifiers (TWPAs) through plasma oscillation phase-matching. This study, titled "Josephson Traveling Wave Parametric Amplifiers with Plasma oscillation phase-matching," was submitted to arXiv on August 29, 2024.

The authors propose utilizing Josephson junctions as resonant elements to achieve phase matching, a critical condition for maximizing the gain and bandwidth of TWPAs. Traditional methods often involve placing resonant structures along the waveguide or periodically modulating its parameters, which can complicate design and implementation.

Through numerical simulations conducted using JoSIM and WRspice software, the researchers demonstrated that Josephson plasma oscillations can create sufficient wavevector mismatch necessary for effective phase matching. This innovation not only enhances the amplifier's performance but also prevents the unwanted conversion of pump energy to higher harmonics.

The proposed design achieves a gain of 15 dB and a bandwidth of 3.5 GHz, positioning it on par with existing state-of-the-art TWPAs. These advancements could have significant implications for quantum computing and other technologies reliant on high-performance amplifiers.

The full paper can be cited as follows: Rizvanov, E., Kern, S., Neilinger, P., & Grajcar, M. (2024). Josephson Traveling Wave Parametric Amplifiers with Plasma oscillation phase-matching. arXiv:2408.16869.