Optical Lattices for Optimal Atom Lenses

Abstract

Optical lattices have been used for focusing atomic beams to produce arrays of parallel nanowires and nanodots. Atomic dynamics in optical lattice lenses can be treated with either a method analogous to classical ray‐optics or wave mechanics. In this article, we investigate the dynamics by treating atoms quantum mechanically, moving in semiclassical optical lattices. The goal is to provide general conditions for achieving optimal atom focusing. Effects of experimental parameters such as detuning, laser power, and atom–lattice interaction time, and the shape of the optical lattice potentials on atom focusing are studied. Based on these analyses, strategies for achieving optimal atom focusing are provided.