Non-symmetric quantum interfaces with bilayer atomic arrays

TL;DR

This paper explores how bilayer atomic arrays in free space can be optimized for quantum light-matter interfaces by tuning interlayer spacings, leading to improved efficiencies and a new quantum memory scheme.

Contribution

It introduces a method to optimize quantum interfaces beyond Bragg symmetry and proposes a novel quantum memory based on collective dark states.

Findings

Interface efficiency depends on reflection and transmission observables.

Configurations can suppress diffraction losses via destructive interference.

A new quantum memory scheme using a tunable collective dark state is proposed.

Abstract

We study quantum light-matter interfaces based on bilayer atomic arrays in free space, considering interlayer spacings $a_z$ that may deviate from the Bragg-symmetric condition, $a_z\in \mathrm{integer}\times \lambda/2$ with $\lambda$ the light wavelength. Mapping the problem to a one-dimensional model, we show that the interface efficiency is fully determined by simple scattering observables $-$ reflection and transmission $-$ providing a direct, experimentally accessible characterization. This reveals new opportunities for optimizing light-matter coupling by operating beyond the Bragg symmetry. In particular, we identify configurations that suppress diffraction losses via destructive interference, enabling substantially improved interface efficiencies compared to Bragg-constrained designs. In addition, we introduce a new quantum memory scheme based on a collective dark state whose coupling to light is continuously controlled by tuning the interlayer spacing. More broadly, our results establish non-symmetric atomic arrays as a flexible platform for efficient quantum interfaces in free space.