Model checking quantum protocols

We introduce model-checking techniques for the automated analysis of quantum information protocols. These protocols take advantage of features of quantum theory such as entanglement and quantum measurement and some implementations already exist. Our techniques enable us to model a class of quantum protocols (those expressible within the stabilizer formalism) which are simulable in polynomial time. We discuss the QMC model checker, which verifies models of systems that combine both quantum and classical computations. The modelling language of the tool is presented, along with the temporal quantum propositional logic (QCTL) that is used for specifying properties. We discuss model-checking procedures and efficiency issues. We apply QMC to a case study.