Robust high-temperature atomic beam source with a microcapillary array

TL;DR

This paper introduces a robust, high-temperature atomic beam source using a microcapillary array, enabling high-flux, collimated atomic beams for vacuum atomic physics experiments with improved durability.

Contribution

The design features an externally heated stainless steel microcapillary array that enhances robustness and allows operation at higher temperatures without damaging vacuum components.

Findings

Successful generation of collimated lithium atomic beams at various temperatures

Enhanced durability of the atomic source under high-temperature operation

Potential for improved atomic physics experiments with robust sources

Abstract

We present a new design for a directed high-flux high-temperature atomic vapor source for use in atomic physics experiments conducted under vacuum. An externally heated nozzle made of an array of stainless steel microcapillaries produces a collimated atomic beam. Welded stainless steel construction allows for operation at high source temperatures without exposing delicate conflat vacuum flanges to thermal stress, greatly enhancing robustness compared to previously published designs. We report in operando performance measurements of an atomic beam of lithium at various operating temperatures.