Pixel Photonics wins €1 million for multi-mode single-photon detectors
The start-up plans to use the new funding from the German Federal Agency for Breakthrough Innovation to adapt its existing detection technology for multi-mode light, expanding its applications beyond quantum to include LiDAR and diagnostics
Pixel Photonics has announced it has received a grant of €1 million from the German Federal Agency for Breakthrough Innovation (SPRIND) to further develop its waveguide-integrated superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (WI-SNSPDs) for multi-mode detection. The company says this development represents a technological breakthrough in ultra-precise photon detection and enables new applications in fields such as microscopy, diagnostics, and laser communication.
Light is the central information carrier in numerous high-tech applications, from microscopy and telecommunications to quantum computing. Highly sensitive detectors are essential for reliably detecting even the lowest signal strengths, with SNSPDs currently being the detectors of choice. Pixel Photonics says it has already set milestones in scalability and sensitivity with the integration of SNSPDs with photonic waveguides.
However, existing highly efficient detector solutions, especially in the near-infrared spectral range, are often limited to light in a single optical mode, making interfacing with many applications challenging, especially in life sciences, microscopy, diagnostics and LiDAR, which typically work with multimodal light. This is where Pixel Photonics aims to help; with the new support from SPRIND, the start-up plans to advance a multi-mode adaptation of its detection technology.
“The SPRIND funding perfectly complements our journey alongside visionary VCs like Quantonation and HTGF, providing a crucial boost to the development of our technology beyond quantum applications,” says Nicolai Walter, CEO of Pixel Photonics. “This support enables us to accelerate progress and bring our innovations to market faster. Our multi-mode capable single-photon detectors will seamlessly integrate into established optical systems, making the adoption of SNSPD technology effortless for industry players. By offering a versatile detection platform, this innovation expands possibilities across a broad range of applications while unlocking new opportunities in medtech and diagnostics. Ultimately, this advancement has the potential to open entirely new markets for Pixel Photonics, with strong multi-million-euro revenue potential.”
