PIC Summit Europe 2024: day 2 morning round-up

Attendees returned to the Evoluon for a second day of application focussed sessions around four main themes: optical computing, biosensing, imaging, and the wireless revolution. Running parallel to the main programme were side events in quantum and the future of integrated photonics. Here are some key takeaways from the morning’s sessions.

Optical computing and data transport

AI can deliver big things, but it consumes a lot of energy. With integrated photonics, it’s possible to halve the energy consumption in data centres. One of the day’s first speakers, Bert Jan Offrein of IBM Research Europe, outlined the challenges of AI and how new electrical and optical technologies – like neuromorphic computing – can help.  

Following on, Mark Thompson of PsiQuantum explored the usefulness of quantum computing by unpacking quantum superposition and quantum entanglement, and how they can solve otherwise impossible computational tasks. PICs play a vital role in the development of quantum computing, “Photonics really excels in scalability in comparison with other quantum computing technologies,” Mark explained.

Stefan Hengesbach from QuiX Quantum echoed this, saying, “Photonics has unique advantages for universal quantum computing”. He then announced the development of a useful quantum computer for the German Aerospace Center (DLR). 

Before the break, Francesco Manegatti of NcodiN pitched the world’s smallest laser as a unique solution for optical interposers. 

Quantum computing

Kicking off the Quantum Integrated Photonics side sessions, Dr Taofiq Paraiso of Toshiba gave a fantastic presentation on the practical applications of quantum computing – including advanced cryptography and greater levels of security in data. 

Looking deeper into the subject, Dr. Paraiso explored active developments that are in play to build great quantum communication networks using PICs. He also mentioned that the practical deployment of QKD will require fading boundaries including packaging solutions, PICs as EICs, and standardisation.

Biosensing

After the break, speakers focused on biosensing applications. Aaron Zilkie (previously of Rockley Photonics), currently CTO and Partner at WeBridge Ventures, began the session by exploring the applications and benefits of multi-micron silicon waveguide PICs – a photonic-optimised waveguide platform offering versatility and cost-efficiency.

Taking attendees on a journey into the future of food, Manfred Aben of Unilever explored the concept of ‘holistic superiority’ in food, speaking to two global problems: by 2050, 9 billion more people will need 70% more food to be produced, and 25% of today’s carbon emissions come from the food industry. The challenge ahead? Creating more food that tastes good and is better for the environment. More data and precision are key, so sensing powered by integrated photonics can revolutionise the food industry.

Next up, a pitch session saw Dimitris Tsiokos highlight Bialoom’s diagnostic solution aimed at detecting pathogens, which is transforming point-of-care diagnostics with a PIC platform. Rick Jongen of Spectrik then discussed the development of robust gas sensors for the agrifood market and explained how photonics can help the livestock sector reduce emissions; before Jos Lunenberg of Surfix Diagnostics rounded out the morning’s pitches with an overview of how their photonics diagnostics platform offers multimodal point-of-care testing.

Wrapping up the morning

The morning sessions were a great dive into applicable uses of integrated photonics, the potential investment opportunities in the space, as well as a technical deep dive into other technologies that PICs are driving forward. 

After lunch, two more themes will follow. Imaging and wireless revolution will be covered by a range of experts and businesses operating in those spaces, and we’ll also look at some in-depth technical poster sessions exploring ongoing integrated photonics research.