Optical quantum memory for noble-gas spins based on spin-exchange collisions

TL;DR

This paper proposes and analyzes schemes for optical quantum memory using noble-gas spins, leveraging spin-exchange collisions with alkali vapor to achieve long-lived, optically-inaccessible quantum state storage.

Contribution

It introduces novel methods for mapping photon states onto noble-gas spins via spin-exchange interactions, expanding quantum memory options.

Findings

Proposed efficient storage strategies in two regimes.

Analyzed performance for multiple experimental setups.

Demonstrated potential for long-lived quantum memory.

Abstract

Optical quantum memories, which store and preserve the quantum state of photons, rely on a coherent mapping of the photonic state onto matter states that are optically accessible. Here we outline and characterize schemes to map the state of photons onto long-lived but optically-inaccessible collective states of noble-gas spins. The mapping employs coherent spin-exchange interaction arising from random collisions with alkali vapor. We propose efficient storage strategies in two operating regimes and analyze their performance for several proposed experimental configurations.