Unlocking the Future: The Transformative Power of Quantum Computing
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Quantum Computing
Quantum computing stands poised to alter the world in both minor and monumental ways.
In the realm of transport engineering, few challenges are as intricate as managing a bustling port. For instance, Fremantle Ports in Western Australia handles an impressive 12,500 trucks, 400 train paths, and up to 15,000 containers weekly. Ensuring the smooth movement of cargo is essential, necessitating a finely-tuned coordination of various elements—marine, quayside, and landside—to guarantee that containers arrive at the correct terminal, are loaded onto the right ships, and that trucks enter the gates precisely when required.
To navigate these complexities, supply chain operators utilize Monte Carlo simulations—advanced computational algorithms designed for demand modeling and transport optimization. However, these simulations can take days to complete, and any unexpected changes, such as weather delays, breakdowns, or traffic issues, can render them ineffective.
Fortunately, this combinatorial optimization challenge is ideally suited for quantum computers, which can resolve specific issues at a speed exponentially faster than traditional ‘classical’ computers. Despite being in the early stages of development, quantum hardware systems are currently available, and when used alongside classical computers, they could tackle these challenges. This is precisely what Fremantle Ports is investigating.
“The advantage of quantum optimization lies in its speed; the model can also adapt in real time to account for changes,” remarked Dr. Cathy Foley, Australia’s Chief Scientist, during her presentation at the recent Quantum Australia 2023 conference in Sydney. Reflecting on a prior visit, she expressed admiration for Fremantle Ports’ ambitious plans: “They are working towards forming a consortium with shipping lines, the container terminal, and trucking companies to make this a reality.”
Chapter 2: Quantum Computing’s Expanding Influence
According to Foley, this is merely one illustration of how the potential of quantum computing is rapidly infiltrating various sectors. “In 2023, the term ‘quantum’ has become part of everyday language,” she noted. “The Australian government recognizes the transformative power of quantum technologies and understands the importance of capitalizing on this moment.”
Australia possesses all the necessary elements to maximize the benefits of quantum computing: a solid foundation built on years of foundational research, a dynamic research community, a vibrant cluster of startups pioneering innovative solutions, and a government eager to foster success. “We’re in a fortunate position,” Foley added. “We have momentum.”
The Next Frontier
Quantum computing represents the next major technological evolution, likely to yield substantial advantages in the coming decades, but it also stands as one of the most fiercely competitive areas of innovation. Currently, Australia enjoys a significant lead. However, history reminds us that in 1949, at the dawn of the computer era, Australian engineers were among the first globally to develop a fully digital computer: CSIRAC. Sadly, Australia allowed that lead to slip away.
This time, however, Australian governments, researchers, and industries are resolute in not allowing history to repeat itself. “As of now, we have approximately 20 companies focused on quantum technologies,” stated Ed Husic, Australia’s Industry and Science Minister, at the conference. “This number is increasing as Australian innovators continue to make breakthroughs and find ways to bring them to market. Our companies are expanding internationally, and global giants like Google are collaborating with our research institutions to push the boundaries of quantum technology.”
The first video, The Promise of Quantum Computers | Matt Langione, discusses the potential of quantum computing and its implications across various sectors.
Chapter 3: A Commitment to Quantum Advancement
Husic emphasized that the Australian government’s National Quantum Strategy, set to be unveiled later this year, will serve as “the beginning of a dialogue, not a conclusion. This is a vital opportunity for our nation. We believe in the quantum ecosystem and its significance for national prosperity.”
The presence of influential speakers at the conference, including representatives from IBM, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, venture capitalists like IQT and Blackbird, as well as the US Quantum Economic Development Consortium and the UK National Quantum Computing Centre, indicates that Australia is being taken seriously on the global stage.
Cusp of Achievement
“Stop aiming low,” urged Professor Michael Biercuk, founder of the University of Sydney spin-off Q-CTRL, a quantum software startup valued at $70.8 million with investments from Airbus, Salesforce, and Main Sequence Ventures. After decades of research and over $1 billion in government funding, the local quantum sector is nearing a turning point, he said, with many Australian companies on the brink of becoming global leaders: “We have the opportunity to be integral to the entire value chain.” Nonetheless, Foley acknowledged that this is “challenging science, pushing the limits of human capability.”
Creating computers based on quantum mechanics—the study of how matter and energy behave at a subatomic level—has long been recognized as immensely powerful, yet it remains an extraordinarily complex challenge. Unlike contemporary ‘classical’ computers, which process information using binary bits (zeroes and ones), quantum computers utilize quantum bits or ‘qubits,’ which can exist in multiple states simultaneously.
This phenomenon, known as superposition, enables a variety of computational approaches—some exponentially faster and others simultaneous—far surpassing today’s computers. Another unique property, entanglement, allows quantum computers to process data concurrently.
While still a delicate and developing technology, quantum computers are already being utilized to simulate chemical and molecular interactions, facilitating the discovery of new medications and innovative materials.
The second video, Bad News for Quantum Computing: Another Advantage Gone, addresses the competitive landscape of quantum computing and the challenges faced by the industry.
Chapter 4: The Global Quantum Race
This promise is what draws significant investment: the global quantum computing market is currently valued at $10.3 billion and expanding rapidly. With substantial investments from governments and commercial enterprises, the global market is projected to soar to $125 billion by 2030.
A 2022 analysis by CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, estimated that quantum computing could generate $2.2 billion in revenue for Australia by 2030 and nearly $6 billion by 2045, potentially creating 8,700 new jobs by 2030 and 19,400 by 2045.
Among the many notable Australian startups is Diraq, which emerged from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in 2022 with $20 million in funding. While existing quantum computers typically feature fewer than 100 qubits, Diraq aims to achieve billions of qubits on a single chip within the next decade.
Andrew Dzurak, Diraq’s founder and a professor of quantum engineering at UNSW, remarked, “Many consider landing on the Moon as our greatest technological feat. However, I believe that today’s CMOS microchips—with billions of integrated operating devices working in harmony—are humanity’s most significant technical achievement. They have transformed society, industry, and our way of life. Quantum computing will be equally remarkable.”
This article originally appeared in CREATE, the magazine of Engineers Australia.