A linear AC trap for polar molecules in their ground state.

A linear AC trap for polar molecules in high-field seeking states has been devised and implemented, and its characteristics have been investigated both experimentally and theoretically. The trap is loaded with slow 15ND3 molecules in their ground state (para-ammonia) from a Stark decelerator. The trap's geometry offers optimal access as well as improved loading.

ac electric trap for ground-state molecules.

We here report on the realization of an electrodynamic trap, capable of trapping neutral atoms and molecules in both low-field and high-field seeking states. Confinement in three dimensions is achieved by switching between two electric field configurations that have a saddle point at the center of the trap, i.e.

Microstructured switchable mirror for polar molecules.

By miniaturizing electrode geometries high electric fields can be produced using modest voltages. A planar array of 20 microm wide gold electrodes, spaced 20 microm apart, is made on a sapphire substrate. A voltage difference of up to 350 V is applied to adjacent electrodes, generating an electric field that decreases exponentially with distance from the substrate.