Cold-atom densities of more than 1012 cm−3 in a holographically shaped dark spontaneous-force optical trap

Radwell, N., Walker, G. and Franke-Arnold, S. (2013) Cold-atom densities of more than 1012 cm−3 in a holographically shaped dark spontaneous-force optical trap. Physical Review A: Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics, 88(4), 043409. (doi: 10.1103/PhysRevA.88.043409)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.88.043409

Abstract

We demonstrate an atom trap geometry for 87Rb which is capable of producing ultrahigh atom densities. Reradiation forces, which usually limit high densities, can be avoided in dark spontaneous-force optical traps (dark SPOTs) by sheltering atoms from intense trapping light. Here we demonstrate a dynamic implementation of a dark SPOT, resulting in an increase in atom density by almost two orders of magnitude up to 1.3×1012 cm−3. Holographic control of the trapping beams and dynamic switching between magneto-optical trap (MOT) and dark SPOT configuration allows us to optimize the trapping geometry. We have identified the ideal size of the dark core to be six times larger than the MOT. Our method also avoids unwanted heating so that we reach a record phase-space density for a MOT.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Radwell, Dr Neal and Franke-Arnold, Professor Sonja and Walker, Mr Graeme
Authors: Radwell, N., Walker, G., and Franke-Arnold, S.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
Journal Name:Physical Review A: Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics
Publisher:American Physical Society
ISSN:1050-2947
ISSN (Online):1094-1622

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