Vapor Cell Development for Atom-Based Radio Frequency Sensing

Vapor cell technology is the backbone of a wide range of atomic sensors. This project aims to improve the functionality of vapor cells for Rydberg atom radio frequency detection. The main goal of the work is to test vapor cells whose interior walls are coated with materials that passivate the surfaces so as to eliminate the bonding of the sensor atoms to the surfaces, which eliminates the electric field effects that can decrease the sensitivity of the sensor. The interns will make measurements of a collection of vapor cells using optical spectroscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectrsoscopy to optimize the coatings for radio frequency sensing. The statistics of the measurements will be used to characterize the variation of the vapor cell properties and thereby quantify the reproducibility of the fabrication process. The results will be used to improve the fabrication process with the goal of reducing the variation of the vapor cell properties.

Faculty Supervisor:

Jonathan Baugh

Student:

Partner:

Quantum Valley Ideas Lab

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: