Schemes for quantum key distribution with higher-order alphabets using single-photon fractional Fourier optics

We propose generalized quantum key distribution schemes using spatially encoded d-dimensional qudits based on fractional Fourier transform operations. We determine the necessary conditions on the orders of the transforms which ensure a shared secret random key string and briefly discuss the transmission rate and a possible encoding procedure. We also show that the fractional Fourier transform can be used to analyze more general eavesdropping strategies, including an intermediate-basis attack. The error rate and information gain for the intercept-resend and intermediate-basis attacks are briefly analyzed for a particular example. Effects of atmospheric turbulence in a free-space transmission are considered.