Work

Electric field distortions in surface ion traps with integrated nanophotonics

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The integration of photonic components into surface ion traps provides a scalable approach for trapped-ion quantum computing, sensing, and metrology, enabling compact systems with enhanced stability and precision. However, the introduction of optical apertures in the trap electrodes can distort the trapping electric field. This can lead to excess micromotion and ion displacement, which degrade the performance of quantum logic operations and optical clocks. In this work, we systematically investigate the electric field distortion in a surface ion trap with integrated waveguides and grating couplers that require apertures in the surface electrode using finite element method simulations. We analyze methods to reduce these distortions by exploiting symmetries and transparent conductive oxide materials.

Source: Physical Review Applied

DOI: 10.1103/l1cn-28kv

Authors: Guochun Du, Elena Jordan, Tanja E. Mehlstäubler

Institutions: Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt, Federal Institute For Materials Research and Testing, Leibniz University Hannover

Language: English

Topic: Quantum Information and Cryptography

Subfield: Artificial Intelligence

Field: Computer Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: California Department of Fish and Game, Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, Volkswagen Foundation, Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung

Awards: G40493870, EXC 2123: QuantumFrontiers Licht und Materie an der Quantengrenze, G745383156, G865028186