Enabling Quantum Breakthroughs with Vacuum Technology October 6, 2025
Table of content
Quantum Computing's Next Leap
Inside the Quantum Stack
Why Vacuum Is Critical for Qubits
Supporting Cryogenic Platforms
Enabling Cleanroom-Grade Fabrication
Overcoming Quantum Lab Challenges
Quantum Computing's Next Leap
Quantum computing is moving beyond academic theory and into real-world applications. From superconducting qubits to trapped ions and photonics, the field is accelerating rapidly. As quantum systems grow more complex, they demand precisely controlled environments to maintain performance and coherence.
Vacuum technology plays a foundational yet often overlooked role in this evolution, enabling clean, stable, and repeatable conditions essential for quantum research and manufacturing.
In this article, we explore how vacuum systems support the quantum technology stack and how Leybold is partnering with pioneers in the field to advance the future of quantum computing.
Inside the Quantum Stack
A quantum computer’s architecture is known as the "quantum stack". It is a multi-layered system including:
- Quantum Processing Layer: Where qubits perform calculations
- Cryogenic Layer: Maintains near-absolute-zero temperatures
- Control Electronics Layer: Delivers microwave signals and power
- Infrastructure Layer: Includes shielding, enclosures, and vacuum systems
The quantum processing and cryogenic layers are particularly sensitive to environmental interference, making high-performance vacuum technology essential to their stability and function.
Why Vacuum Is Critical for Qubits
Qubits are extraordinarily sensitive to external disturbances. Tiny particles, vibrations, or electromagnetic noise can cause decoherence, disrupting the fragile quantum state and compromising results. Vacuum systems help preserve qubit stability by creating ultra-clean, interference-free environments.
For Superconducting Qubits:
- Require ultra-high vacuum (UHV) conditions for chip fabrication
- Need dry, low-vibration pumps to minimize electromagnetic interference
For Trapped Ion Qubits:
- Operate in UHV (10⁻⁹ mbar or better) to prevent ion-gas collisions
- Use ion or turbomolecular pumps for long-term vacuum stability
For Photonic and Neutral Atom Qubits:
- Depend on clean, stable vacuum paths for beam alignment and optical control
Supporting Cryogenic Platforms
Quantum systems often rely on dilution refrigerators to reach millikelvin temperatures. Vacuum systems serve two key functions in cryogenic setups:
- Thermal Insulation: Minimizes heat transfer from external environments
- Pump-Down Efficiency: Enables fast, contamination-free evacuation
Leybold Solutions:
- TURBOVAC i/iX – High-speed turbomolecular pumps optimized for cryo-environments
- ECODRY Plus – Quiet, oil-free backing pumps for clean operation
- Scroll and Ion Pumps – Reliable solutions for ultra-clean, low-maintenance setups
TURBOVAC i/iX - High-speed turbomolecular pumps optimized for cryo-environments
Enabling Cleanroom-Grade Fabrication
Quantum devices are typically fabricated using physical and atomic layer deposition (PVD/ALD) in cleanroom environments. These processes demand:
- Rapid pump-down and low base pressures
- Contamination-free operation
- High repeatability and throughput
Leybold Fabrication Support
- Customized vacuum systems for deposition chambers
- High-performance pumps tailored to advanced material science workflows
Overcoming Quantum Lab Challenges
Quantum labs often operate under physical and operational constraints, such as:
- Limited space – Equipment must fit into tight setups without compromising performance.
- Vibrations from neighboring equipment – Even minor disturbances can disrupt experiments and reduce measurement accuracy.
- Downtime due to pump maintenance – Unexpected stops delay critical research and experiments.
Leybold Lab-Friendly Innovations
- TURBOLAB – A compact, modular plug-and-play system that saves valuable bench space and simplifies setup, ideal for labs with space restrictions.
- Remote Monitoring – The TURBOLAB systems have built-in support for condition monitoring, e.g. logging and remote control & monitoring via the X1 interface, or using integrated web server functionality. This enables predictive maintenance and early warning of anomalies
- Low-Vibration Design – The ECODRY plus dry multistage roots pumps produce extremely low vibration and noise and can avoid the need to isolate the UHV system from the roughing pump system.
ECODRY plus - low-vibration turbomolecular pump with magnetically-levitated bearings"
Leybold Your Partner in Innovation
We partner with leading research institutions and OEMs to co-develop vacuum systems that meet the evolving needs of quantum technology. Support includes:
- Vacuum system mapping and pressure simulations
- Custom integration with cryostats and lab equipment
- On-site training and technical support for researchers
Quantum computing may be rewriting the rules of what's possible, but its success still relies on classical fundamentals—like the vacuum.
As researchers push boundaries and startups bring new systems to market, Leybold stands as a trusted partner, ensuring their environments are as precise and stable as the quantum operations they support.
