Telecom-wavelength single-photon sources forquantum communications

This paper describes the progress towards the realization of efficient single-photon sources based on semiconductor quantum dots (QDs), for application in quantum key distribution and, more generally, quantum communications. We describe the epitaxial growth of QD arrays with low areal density and emitting in the telecom wavelength range, the nanofabrication of single-QD structures and devices, and their optical and electro-optical characterization. The potential for integration with monolithic microcavities is also discussed.