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arXiv · 1101.3469

Photonic Band Gaps in One-Dimensionally Ordered Cold Atomic Vapors

Alexander Schilke·Claus Zimmermann·Philippe W. Courteille·William Guerin
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Abstract

We experimentally investigate the Bragg reflection of light at one-dimensionally ordered atomic structures by using cold atoms trapped in a laser standing wave. By a fine tuning of the periodicity, we reach the regime of multiple reflection due to the refractive index contrast between layers, yielding an unprecedented high reflectance efficiency of 80%. This result is explained by the occurrence of a photonic band gap in such systems, in accordance with previous predictions.

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Alexander Schilke, Claus Zimmermann, Philippe W. Courteille, William Guerin. 2011-06-06. Photonic Band Gaps in One-Dimensionally Ordered Cold Atomic Vapors. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevlett.106.223903

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