Graphene-based All-Optical Technology Platform for Secure Internet of Things

Project Information

GATEPOST

Grant agreement ID: 101120938

DOI

10.3030/101120938

EC signature date 30 June 2023

Start date 1 October 2023

End date 31 March 2027

Funded under

• Digital, Industry and Space

Total cost

€ 5 499 818,50

EU contribution

€ 5 499 818,50

Coordinated by

IHP GMBH - LEIBNIZ INSTITUTE FOR HIGH PERFORMANCE MICROELECTRONICS
Germany

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - GATEPOST (Graphene-based All-Optical Technology Platform for Secure Internet of Things)

Reporting period: 2023-10-01 to 2025-03-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

Modern technologies like the Internet of Things and upcoming 5G/6G networks demand computing systems that are faster, use less energy, and can handle large amounts of data efficiently. To meet these needs, new materials and approaches are required. Graphene and other two-dimensional materials offer a powerful solution. They can control light with incredible speed and precision, using very little power - reacting in just femtoseconds (a millionth of a billionth of a second). But to turn this into a real-world computing platform, these materials must be integrated with existing silicon-based technology, especially CMOS-compatible silicon nitride, offering low signal loss. This combination opens the door to creating compact, energy-efficient, high-speed optical circuits for general-purpose computing and memory - without relying on electronics. GATEPOST project aims to build and test such a graphene-based system using a real CMOS pilot production line.
GATEPOST has advanced the development of graphene-enhanced photonic technologies aimed at facilitating rapid detection of cybersecurity threats and a wider spectrum of high-velocity data applications. Notable accomplishments encompass the simulation, design, engineering of integrated photonic circuits, establishment graphene integration methodologies in CMOS pilot line, the creation of a reusable photonic design kit (PDK), and the advancement of microresonator-based optical frequency combs. Collectively, these innovations foster the realization of scalable, energy-efficient, and high-performance photonic systems applicable to cybersecurity, telecommunications, and neuromorphic computing.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

In WP2,we designed and tested integrated photonic devices which are intended to be used for ultra-fast detection of DDoS attacks. These devices are engineered using novel technology on photonic integrated circuits, which when utilizing the unique properties of light could potentially filter out nefarious traffic and protect online systems before any damage is done. As a part of this work AKHE created a photonic design kit - a reusable set of building blocks that can be used by other researchers and developers to design their own advanced photonic devices. This makes it possible to build on the projects results and apply the technology to a wide range of future challenges, from secure communications to ultra-fast computing. In the WP3 we focused on the development of the fabrication processes for graphene integration into standard 200mm pilot line. The integration steps like graphene growth, transfer, encapsulation and contacting were developed inline with CMOS technology platform at IHP. The proof-of-concept devices were fabricated and characterised electrically. Realization of graphene on Si3N4 photonic platform at IHP has been performed. Waveguides, grating couplers, etc. were were realized for building up the dual-graphene modulators with additional waveguide heaters for inducing of thermo-optic effect on the modulation. The technological requirements for the processing of photonic elements for the integrated circuits were determined, resulting in preliminary Process Design Kit (PDK), linking the design tools and semiconductor fabrication requirements. This lead to the first tape-out on photonic based devices realized in GATEPOST project. WP4 focused on the development of a microcomb, which can be used as an optical clock or a multi-wavelength source. HHI developed a narrow linewidth, high-power source with two-stages therein enabling the pump’s amplitude and frequency to be independently controlled. Enlightra simulated and designed optical I/O optimized for HHI’s devices and worked to reduce back-reflections as well as tested novel microresonator geometries that increase the power-per-line and reduce power variation between comb lines. IMEC focused on the driver EICs and translated the parameters from the testing of GRAPHENE-enabled devices into requirements on a technology platform. IMEC also completed the schematic and layout for the DAC whose output will drive the photonic devices and designed two prototype boards. HPE has developed a simulator framework in WP5 that allows to execute functional and system-level simulation of photonic neuromorphic hardware. We have used this simulation framework to investigate various relevant photonic circuit architectures, and are planning to use this knowledge to benchmark the optimal design for the GATEPOST hardware platform in terms of energy-consumption, area, latency, etc. Furthermore, we have done some initial experimental tests on SiGe chips which have neuromorphic or content addressable memory.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

GATEPOST is advancing beyond current electronic systems by developing the first graphene-based, all-optical computing platform integrated with CMOS-compatible photonics. This could enable fast, low-power processing essential for modern IoT and cybersecurity needs. Key outcomes include a novel DDoS detection method based directly on the optical network signal, neuromorphic photonic processing of such signals, and a reusable process design kit and standard component library. By the project's end we expect to reduce energy use, enhance digital security, and support Europe’s leadership in photonics and 2D materials. GATEPOST also contributes to broader societal goals like sustainable tech development and digital resilience. These technologies are being developed at IHP’s 2D Pilot Line, enabling scalable production and reinforcing Europe’s position in high-performance photonic devices. Looking ahead, this platform could support a wide range of applications - including artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles - marking a step toward a new era of computing beyond traditional architectures and limitations. The simulator framework developed by HPE, which we will plan to open source in the second reporting period of GATEPOST, will enable fair benchmarking of different optical accelerator alternatives, which will help drive scientific and ecomonic progress in the most promising optical accelerator solutions.