The unusual features of quantum mechanics are enabling the development of technologies not possible with classical physics. These devices utilize nonclassical phenomena in the states of atoms, ions, and solid-state media as the basis for many prototypes. Here we investigate molecular states as a distinct alternative. We demonstrate a memory for light based on storing photons in the vibrations of hydrogen molecules. The THz-bandwidth molecular memory is used to store 100-fs pulses for durations up to 1ns, enabling 10,000 operational time bins. The results demonstrate the promise of molecules for constructing compact ultrafast quantum photonic technologies.
@article{arxiv.1308.4373,
title = {Toward quantum processing in molecules: A THz-bandwidth coherent memory for light},
author = {Philip J. Bustard and Rune Lausten and Duncan G. England and Benjamin J. Sussman},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:1308.4373},
year = {2013}
}