Integrated photonic cryptographic key generator using novel low-power MEMS-on-PIC technology

To improve data security and authentication, we designed and fabricated a cryptographic key generator based on a photonic integrated circuit that converts a digital input key into a digital output key by means of a physical unclonable function. The physical unclonable function is realised by an imperfect multi-mode interferometer controlled by low-voltage MEMS phase shifters with very low power dissipation. The MEMS phase shifters are fabricated using our recently developed MEMS-on-PIC technology. A cross-platform approach applicable to all common material platforms used in integrated photonics, enabled by a combination of a protective interfacial layer and a sacrificial layer technology.