Single-layer atom chip for continuous operation: Design, fabrication and performance

Abstract

A single-layer atom chip for laser cooling and trapping of atoms which operates in a continuous regime is designed and experimentally investigated. The continuous regime was achieved by optimizing the processes of heat released and heat removal from the working area of the atom chip. To do this, we use silver microwires and optimization of the heat dissipation through different heat removal channels. The main channels for heat dissipation are the contacts of the silicon substrate of the atom chip with a copper massive base and the heat sink through the clamps. The design of the atom chip ensures efficient heat transfer from the work area to the periphery through the metal layer of the atom chip. Using continuous operation regime, we cooled and trapped about 3 ∙ 105 atoms near the atom chip.