Search for: All records

In this paper, we discuss a technique for selectively loading a particle into a magneto-gravitational trap using the sublimation of camphor to release particles from a tungsten probe tip directly into the trapping region. This sublimation-activated release (SAR) loading technique makes use of micropositioners with tungsten probe tips, as well as the relatively fast rate of sublimation of camphor at room temperature, to selectively load particles having diameters ranging from 8 to 100 μm or more. The advantages of this method include its ability to selectively load unique particles or particles in limited supply, its low loss compared to alternative techniques, the low speed of the particle when released, and the versatility of its design, which allows for loading into traps with complex geometries. SAR is demonstrated here by loading a particle into a magneto-gravitational trap, but the technique could also be applicable to other levitated optomechanical systems.

 

Levitated optomechanics in vacuum has shown promise for fundamental tests of physics including quantum mechanics and gravity, for sensing weak forces or accelerations, and for precision measurements. While much research has focused on optical trapping of dielectric particles, other approaches, such as magnetic trapping of diamagnetic particles, have been gaining interest. Here we review geometries for both optical and magnetic trapping in vacuum, with an emphasis on the properties of traps for particles with a diameter of at least one micrometer.