Francesco B. L Santagiustina

Entanglement is a unique and invaluable resource for quantum information processing because it highlights the non-locality property, which allows for device-independent (DI) quantum communication protocols, such as Quantum Key Distribution and Quantum Random Number Generation. However, the distribution of entanglement over long distances is challenging due to propagation losses and instability. Time-bin entanglement is a promising solution since it is robust in long-distance distribution over fiber optics and immune to the polarization distortion such a channel can introduce. Time-bin has also been demonstrated to be compatible with NV center-based quantum technologies, representing a crucial interface between the different devices in quantum networks. Nevertheless, its most common implementation suffers from a post-selection loophole (PSL), which invalidates Bell non-locality tests and renders it vulnerable to quantum hacking attacks, thus preventing its use for device-independent protocols. We present a scheme using optical switches to obtain only detection events displaying non-local interference, thereby closing the PSL. Our scheme works with 1550nm biphotons for entanglement distribution over existing fiber-based telecom networks. The switches show a high extinction ratio of up to 30dB and stability over extended periods. We also measure interferometric visibilities of over 94%, which corresponds to a CHSH S parameter of 2.65