"Atom chips: quantum gases on the (sub)micron scale" Peter Krüger

Atom chips: quantum gases on the (sub)micron scale
Prof. Peter Krüger
The University of Nottingham, UK

• Date: Tuesday, 7 April
• Time: 14:00-15:00
• Venue: C015,  Lab1

Abstract:
Microtraps for cold atoms based on patterned surface-mounted structures (atom chips) form the basis of quantum devices utilizing ultracold atomic gases for many-body quantum state engineering and measurement. In this talk we will showcase some experiments that illustrate the capability of such devices for applications ranging from portable sensors to be used outside the laboratory to studies of dynamics in a one-dimensional gas of low-temperature bosons.
New types of experiments become possible through structuring and manipulating quantum gases on (sub)micron scales, which requires the distance between trap and chip surface to be reduced to similar scales. We will present some of these new opportunities arising from the ability to shape the environment of the gas with a tailoring resolution on the order of and beyond its characteristic length scales (healing length). Conversely, a quantum gas trapped at a micron or less distance from a surface is a highly sensitive probe for microscopic magnetic fields that features high spatial resolution at the same time. We will discuss the obstacles on the way to further miniaturization of atom chips and how they can be overcome using novel materials and geometries.

Looking foward to seeing many of you.

Quantum Systems Unit