A magneto-optic trap using a reversible, solid-state alkali-metal source

TL;DR

This paper introduces a reversible, solid-state alkali-metal source for magneto-optic traps, enabling fast, low-power atom trapping and depletion, which enhances cold-atom system versatility and portability.

Contribution

The authors present a novel solid-state alkali-metal source that allows rapid and reversible control of atom vapor in MOTs, improving upon traditional methods.

Findings

Achieved 5 million trapped atoms with ~100 mW power

MOT formation and depletion occur within approximately 1 second

Device technology is adaptable to other alkali and alkaline-earth elements

Abstract

We demonstrate a novel way to form and deplete a vapor-cell magneto-optic trap (MOT) using a reversible, solid-state alkali-metal source (AMS) via an applied polarized voltage. Using ~100 mW of electrical power, a trapped-atom number of 5x10^6 has been achieved starting from near zero and the timescales of the MOT formation and depletion of ~1 s. This fast, reversible, and low power alkali-atom source is desirable in both tabletop and portable cold-atom systems. The core technology of this device should translate readily to other alkali and alkaline-earth elements that could find a wide range of uses in cold-atom systems and instruments.