A cryogenic surface-electrode elliptical ion trap for quantum simulation

Abstract

Two-dimensional crystals of trapped ions are a promising system with which to implement quantum simulations of challenging problems such as spin frustration. Here, we present a design for a surface-electrode elliptical ion trap which produces a 2-D ion crystal and is amenable to microfabrication, which would enable higher simulated coupling rates, as well as interactions based on magnetic forces generated by currents which may be incorporated into the trap structure. Working in an 11 K cryogenic environment, we experimentally verify to within 10 a numerical model of the structure of ion crystals in the trap, given the measured trap anisotropy. We also explore the possibility of implementing quantum simulation using magnetic forces, and calculate J -coupling rates on the order of 103 s-1 for a trap scale of 10μm, using a current of 1 A. © 2011 American Institute of Physics.