Three-dimensional localization of atoms in the polychromatic optical superlattice

• Published in: Physics letters. A 2011-06, Vol.375 (24), p.2471-2478
• Main Author: Krasnov, I.V.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Approximation; Coherence; Color; Laser cooling and trapping; Localization; Optical lattice; Position (location); Rectified radiation forces; Solid state physics; Superlattices; Three dimensional
• ISSN: 0375-9601; 1873-2429
• DOI: 10.1016/j.physleta.2011.04.057

Quasiclassical kinetic theory of the light pressure force has been applied to describe the localization of atoms (or ions) with the transition F = 1 → F = 0 in the three-dimensional (3D) dissipative optical superlattice of a new type. Its action is based on the effect of the gradient force rectification in the polychromatic field: superposition of the three color far-off-resonant field and partially coherent resonant field. An approximate explicit solution of the kinetic equation for 3D motion of atoms in such a (multicolor) field has been achieved. This solution demonstrates the capability of the polychromatic superlattice to provide efficient cooling and strong spatial localization of the particles and to form an atomic (or ionic) grating with highly controllable characteristics. ► We investigated the 3D multicolor optical superlattice. ► Action of the optical superlattice is based on the gradient force rectification. ► We resolved the kinetic equation for 3D motion of atoms in optical superlattice. ► We demonstrated that multicolor superlattice has highly controllable properties. ► The optical superlattice can be used for strong localization of atoms and ions.