Optical levitation of microdroplet containing a single quantum dot

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates the optical levitation of a liquid droplet containing a single quantum dot in helium gas, enabling stable single-photon emission for over 200 seconds, advancing solid-state quantum emitter research.

Contribution

It introduces the first realization of an optically levitated solid-state quantum emitter within a liquid droplet, combining optical trapping with quantum dot emission.

Findings

Stable single-photon emission observed for over 200 seconds

Photon count rates match theoretical estimates based on two-photon cross section

Successful optical levitation of a quantum dot in a liquid droplet

Abstract

We demonstrate the optical levitation or trapping in helium gas of a single quantum dot (QD) within a liquid droplet. Bright single photon emission from the levitated QD in the droplet was observed for more than 200 s. The observed photon count rates are consistent with the value theoretically estimated from the two-photon-action cross section. This paper presents the realization of an optically levitated solid-state quantum emitter. This paper was published in Optics Letters and is made available as an electronic reprint with the permission of OSA. The paper can be found at the following URL on the OSA website: https://www.opticsinfobase.org/ol/abstract.cfm?uri=ol-40-6-906. Systematic or multiple reproduction or distribution to multiple locations via electronic or other means is prohibited and is subject to penalties under law.