Quantum discord in the dynamical Casimir effect

Abstract

We analyze the generation of quantum discord by means of the dynamical Casimir effect in superconducting wave guides modulated by superconducting quantum interferometric devices. We show that for realistic experimental parameters, the conditions for the existence of quantum discord are less demanding than the previously considered for quantum entanglement or nonclassicality. These results could facilitate the experimental confirmation of the quantum nature of the dynamical Casimir effect radiation. Moreover, the states with nonzero discord and zero entanglement generated by the dynamical Casimir effect are a useful resource for quantum cryptography.