Periodic Reporting for period 1 - CRYOFAST (Democratizing Cryogenic Measurements for the Quantum Ecosystem)
Période du rapport: 2024-11-01 au 2025-10-31
Progress on research in Europe’s quantum technology sector is slowed by limited access to fast, affordable, and professional cryogenic testing facilities. Low-temperature measurements are essential for validating superconducting and semiconductor quantum devices, yet current infrastructure is costly, slow, and often inaccessible to startups and SMEs. CRYOFAST addresses this gap by creating a Cryogenics-as-a-Service (CaaS) facility based on kiutra’s unique cryostat technology, enabling rapid and scalable device characterization.
The project’s main objectives are to develop and validate a complete CaaS infrastructure hosting a dedicated “Semicon” and “Supercon” measurement system, targeting measurements along the fabrication chain of both semiconducting and superconducting quantum devices; establish standardized workflows for sample handling, tracking, measurement, and data management; develop a secure cloud platform for customer access; validate system performance through pilot studies with leading quantum hardware developers; and prepare for commercialization through market analysis, IP strategy, dissemination, and scaling activities. Together, these objectives will deliver an industry-ready, high-impact service that accelerates quantum hardware development across Europe.
The project’s main objectives are to develop and validate a complete CaaS infrastructure hosting a dedicated “Semicon” and “Supercon” measurement system, targeting measurements along the fabrication chain of both semiconducting and superconducting quantum devices; establish standardized workflows for sample handling, tracking, measurement, and data management; develop a secure cloud platform for customer access; validate system performance through pilot studies with leading quantum hardware developers; and prepare for commercialization through market analysis, IP strategy, dissemination, and scaling activities. Together, these objectives will deliver an industry-ready, high-impact service that accelerates quantum hardware development across Europe.
During Reporting Period 1 (01/11/2024–31/10/2025), CRYOFAST made substantial progress toward establishing the Cryogenics-as-a-Service (CaaS) platform. Work advanced in WP1, WP 2, WP3, WP4, WP5 and WP6, and all deliverables scheduled for RP1 were submitted.
WP1 – Grant Management
Project coordination, communication routines, and reporting structures were fully implemented. The Data Management Plan established FAIR-compliant data handling procedures, including formats, storage concepts, security measures, and GDPR alignment. The Dissemination & Exploitation Plan defined the outreach strategy, key target groups, early adopter engagement, and initial market positioning. An IP strategy, supported by external advisors, was initiated and aligned with project goals.
WP2 – Premarket Readiness
Communication and dissemination activities have been initiated according to the grant agreement. The project was presented on several scientific and commercial trade fairs. Specific product configurations have been validated with customers to gather insights on requirements and market trends. Based on the evaluation of those activities and the overall progress of the project, product market launch preparations will be initiated in along with a revision and update of the existing business plan in RP2.
WP3 – Infrastructure Setup
The dedicated CaaS service area (“Cryofloor”) was completed and put into operation. Both L-Type Rapid cryostats (“Semicon” and “Supercon”) were assembled, installed, and successfully commissioned. Thermal performance, stability, and cooldown behaviour met specifications. Measurement electronics for the Semicon system were fully integrated; procurement for the Supercon stack is underway. Minor outstanding hardware—RF components and the vector magnet—will be completed upon supplier delivery.
WP4 – Device Identification & Handling
A complete end-to-end workflow for sample logistics and traceability was established. This includes a standardized packaging and shipping protocol with QR-based unique sample identifiers, an optical device identification system implemented via tablet interfaces at the cryostats, and a fully defined device–data workflow connecting physical samples to digital records. All planned deliverables for this WP were completed.
WP5 – Semicon Characterization Measurements
Core measurement routines for thin-film transport and I-V characterization were implemented. Drivers and software modules for the lock-in amplifier, SMU, and switching matrix were developed, enabling automated and reproducible measurements. Pilot customer samples were successfully measured, validating usability and measurement fidelity.
WP6 – Supercon Characterization Measurements
Foundational work on resonator spectroscopy and qubit characterization routines was initiated. Thermal and magnetic performance of the Supercon system was validated through commissioning tests. Procurement and integration of advanced quantum control electronics for qubit characterization have been initiated and remain aligned with work planned for RP2.
WP1 – Grant Management
Project coordination, communication routines, and reporting structures were fully implemented. The Data Management Plan established FAIR-compliant data handling procedures, including formats, storage concepts, security measures, and GDPR alignment. The Dissemination & Exploitation Plan defined the outreach strategy, key target groups, early adopter engagement, and initial market positioning. An IP strategy, supported by external advisors, was initiated and aligned with project goals.
WP2 – Premarket Readiness
Communication and dissemination activities have been initiated according to the grant agreement. The project was presented on several scientific and commercial trade fairs. Specific product configurations have been validated with customers to gather insights on requirements and market trends. Based on the evaluation of those activities and the overall progress of the project, product market launch preparations will be initiated in along with a revision and update of the existing business plan in RP2.
WP3 – Infrastructure Setup
The dedicated CaaS service area (“Cryofloor”) was completed and put into operation. Both L-Type Rapid cryostats (“Semicon” and “Supercon”) were assembled, installed, and successfully commissioned. Thermal performance, stability, and cooldown behaviour met specifications. Measurement electronics for the Semicon system were fully integrated; procurement for the Supercon stack is underway. Minor outstanding hardware—RF components and the vector magnet—will be completed upon supplier delivery.
WP4 – Device Identification & Handling
A complete end-to-end workflow for sample logistics and traceability was established. This includes a standardized packaging and shipping protocol with QR-based unique sample identifiers, an optical device identification system implemented via tablet interfaces at the cryostats, and a fully defined device–data workflow connecting physical samples to digital records. All planned deliverables for this WP were completed.
WP5 – Semicon Characterization Measurements
Core measurement routines for thin-film transport and I-V characterization were implemented. Drivers and software modules for the lock-in amplifier, SMU, and switching matrix were developed, enabling automated and reproducible measurements. Pilot customer samples were successfully measured, validating usability and measurement fidelity.
WP6 – Supercon Characterization Measurements
Foundational work on resonator spectroscopy and qubit characterization routines was initiated. Thermal and magnetic performance of the Supercon system was validated through commissioning tests. Procurement and integration of advanced quantum control electronics for qubit characterization have been initiated and remain aligned with work planned for RP2.
CRYOFAST advances the state of the art by introducing a fully service-oriented approach to cryogenic device characterization, replacing fragmented, lab-specific setups with an integrated, standardized, and scalable measurement infrastructure. The project demonstrates that sub-Kelvin characterization can be delivered as a unified service, supported by automated workflows, digital traceability, and streamlined user interaction—establishing an entirely new model for how cryogenic measurements can be accessed and operated within the European quantum technology ecosystem.