Cold atoms in videotape micro-traps.

Authors :: Sinclair, C. D.J.
Retter, J. A.
Curtis, E. A.
Hall, B. V.
Llorente Garcia, I.
Eriksson, S.
Sauer, B. E.
Hinds, E. A.
Source :: European Physical Journal D (EPJ D). Aug2005, Vol. 35 Issue 1, p105-110. 6p.
Publication Year :: 2005
Abstract: We describe an array of microscopic atom traps formed by a pattern of magnetisation on a piece of videotape. We describe the way in which cold atoms are loaded into one of these micro-traps and how the trapped atom cloud is used to explore the properties of the trap. Evaporative cooling in the micro-trap down to a temperature of $1~\mu$K allows us to probe the smoothness of the trapping potential and reveals some inhomogeneity produced by the magnetic film. We discuss future prospects for atom chips based on microscopic permanent-magnet structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]