Optimizing Ion Trap Electrode Geometries for Florescence Collection Efficiency

Ion florescence collection efficiency is a key parameter in trapped ion experiments, particularly in experiments where conventional trap designs fall short in this parameter. One major limitation to collection efficiency arises from the solid angle obscured by trap electrodes.

To address this, our group is investigating different electrode geometries that minimize this obstruction. Multiple ion traps of the same design and different electrode geometries are placed in the same vacuum chamber to be compared simultaneously. We have chosen a stylus trap design for their optimal florescence collection efficiency.

The multi-stylus design allows us to experimentally evaluate the most optimal choice of electrode geometry to use in a final stylus ion trap. The final stylus trap will be positioned within an electrically grounded parabolic mirror, which serves as part of the florescence collection system.