Quantum antireflection temporal coatings: quantum state frequency shifting and inhibited thermal noise amplification

Abstract

The quantum optical response of antireflection temporal coatings (ATCs), that is, matching temporal layers that suppress the generation of backward waves in temporal boundaries, is investigated. The results reveal that quantum ATCs are characterized for inducing a frequency shift of the quantum state, while preserving all photon statistics intact. Thus, they can find application for fast quantum frequency shifting in photonic quantum networks. The quantum theory also provides additional insight on their classical mode of operation, clarifying which quantities are preserved through the temporal boundary. Last, it is shown that quantum ATCs allow for fast temporal switching without amplification of thermal fields.