Linde Engineering has signed an agreement with PsiQuantum to construct a state-of-the-art cryogenic cooling plant in Brisbane, Queensland. The facility will support the world’s first utility-scale quantum computer, a major leap forward in quantum technology development.
One of the Largest Cryogenic Cooling Systems for Quantum Computing
The plant will be among the largest ever built specifically for quantum computing. It is designed to cool the cryogenic cabinets that house PsiQuantum’s new Omega photonic chipsets and other essential systems. Operating at a near-absolute-zero temperature of 4 Kelvin (-269 °C, -452 °F), this advanced infrastructure will ensure the stability and performance required for scalable quantum operations.
Advancing Quantum Technology and Australia’s Innovation Ecosystem
PsiQuantum’s project in Brisbane is not just a technological milestone—it also strengthens Australia’s quantum ecosystem. It fosters collaboration across academia, commercial partners, and the broader supply chain, driving innovation and positioning Australia as a global hub for quantum development.
Linde Engineering Brings World-Class Cryogenics Expertise
Linde Engineering brings decades of cryogenic experience to the table, having delivered over 500 cryogenic plants worldwide. Their systems serve high-tech sectors like semiconductors and MRI, and support major scientific research in particle accelerators and fusion.
“We are proud to help PsiQuantum realize their ambitious vision for quantum computing,” said John van der Velden, Senior Vice President Global Sales and Technology at Linde Engineering. “This collaboration shows how combining expertise can push the boundaries of innovation and help address critical challenges facing society today,” Velden added.
Photonic Qubits Enable Scalable and Efficient Design
PsiQuantum’s approach uses photonic qubits, which don’t generate heat in the same way as matter-based qubits. This allows their systems to run up to 100 times warmer than conventional quantum computers—making the cooling system both practical and scalable.
“We’re excited to work with a world-class partner like Linde Engineering to build robust, industrial-scale cryogenic systems,” said Jeremy O’Brien, CEO and co-founder of PsiQuantum. “This fundamental scaling advantage allows us to accelerate progress toward delivering utility-scale quantum computing,” O’Brien added.
Enabling the Quantum Future
The new plant will cool tens of thousands of PsiQuantum’s Omega photonic chips, housed in interconnected cryogenic cabinets linked via standard optical fiber. These chips leverage qubits—quantum bits that can exist in multiple states at once. This enables them to perform complex computations with unmatched speed and efficiency.
Because qubits are highly sensitive to environmental factors like heat and electromagnetic interference, precise cooling is essential. According to the company press release, the Linde-designed cryogenic plant will maintain optimal conditions. This will enable qubits to retain their quantum properties and function reliably at scale.
