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Success stories from North Rhine-Westphalia

duotec GmbH

Encryption with Quantum Technologies:
The company duotec from Halver specializes in high-precision sensor technology. It is constantly identifying new applications and now also relies on quantum technologies. One of its latest innovations: a sensor for a special encryption method that allows sensitive data to be secured even in the age of the fastest quantum computers.

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The challenge

Technologies based on the principles of quantum mechanics are on the rise. So-called quantum computers, for example, utilize these technologies and thereby achieve exponentially higher performance. This development brings with it considerable challenges, for example, in terms of data security. "The latest quantum computers now achieve such high computing power," says Arthur Rönisch, Managing Director at duotec GmbH in Halver, "that encryption methods used so far will definitely soon cease to work." While conventional computers can take years to decrypt very well-encrypted data, quantum computers could soon be able to do so in just a few minutes or even faster. This can have dramatic consequences, for example, for the protection of sensitive data – from banking information and access to Bitcoins to electronic patient records.

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  • Photos: duotec GmbH
  • Text: Lothar Schmitz, business journalist, Bonn
  • Publication: December 2025

Arthur Rönisch, Managing Director at duotec GmbH

“We constantly identify new technological challenges and want to offer the right solutions for them” – “This requires so much know-how that a company can’t build it all up itself.”

The innovation

Based on special quantum effects, the company duotec has developed a sensor element for encryption methods that, according to the company, offers security even in the world of quantum computers. The basic principle is the so-called Quantum Key Distribution, or QKD for short. The data is not only encrypted, but the technology ensures that, figuratively speaking, the lock and key are constantly being exchanged. The encryption code changes in real time, as if a new password were being generated every second (and faster). Furthermore, this method detects any unauthorized access, allowing additional measures to be taken. This innovation is the result of intensive research into quantum technologies. Founded in 1988, the company specializes in high-precision sensors for applications in industry, medicine, building automation, and mobility. With its developments, duotec continually enables new applications, including the detection of odor changes, which is relevant, for example, for chemicals or for the early detection of fires in batteries. The more demanding the environment in which anomalies are to be detected and conditions measured, the more robust and, at the same time, more sensitive the sensor technology must be. Duotec has achieved a significant leap in innovation with quantum technologies. The company, in collaboration with a partner, developed a particularly small quantum magnetometer. This sensor solution requires no complex cooling, microwaves, or electrical signal lines. The sensor is based on diamonds, known for their hardness and exceptional insulating properties. "This ensures unparalleled accuracy and, at the same time, robustness against chemicals," explains Rönisch. The technology is superior to previous semiconductor magnetic field sensors due to the miniaturization of the detection area and is suitable for the optically transmitted measurement of even the smallest magnetic field-induced signals, allowing conclusions to be drawn about currents, positions, and minute particles in highly sensitive or dynamic environments. The next step was the development of the sensor element for encryption methods.

The NRW effect/The location

Research and development plays a crucial role at duotec. "We are constantly identifying new technological challenges and want to offer the right solutions," explains Rönisch. "This requires so much expertise that a company simply can't build it all up in-house." Rönisch is therefore all the more pleased with North Rhine-Westphalia as a business location. "We have an outstanding university and research landscape here, which offers numerous opportunities for collaboration and joint research." Not only do world-renowned institutions like RWTH Aachen University have a lot to offer, but duotec also finds valuable research expertise in smaller cities like Siegen, Hagen, Iserlohn, and Gummersbach. Münster University of Applied Sciences is also a cooperation partner. Furthermore, the company is part of the "EIN Quantum NRW" network and cluster, through which the state government connects key players in quantum technology. "We benefit enormously from the shared knowledge and joint strategies," says Rönisch. In addition, duotec regularly hires specialists who have studied at universities in North Rhine-Westphalia. "Many students stay in North Rhine-Westphalia after their studies, which is good for us!"

This success story of an innovative transformation was published in January 2026. No updates or reviews of the information have taken place since then.

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Transformation through innovation

Background of the publication series

The publication series “Transformation through Innovation” aims to illustrate how companies in North Rhine-Westphalia have been able to write successful innovation stories thanks to the framework conditions created by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

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