Twisted Ions – A novel tool for quantum science

Project Information

TWISTION

Grant agreement ID: 101042368

DOI

10.3030/101042368

EC signature date 7 February 2022

Start date 1 September 2022

End date 31 August 2027

Funded under

• European Research Council (ERC)

Total cost

€ 1 499 905,00

EU contribution

€ 1 499 905,00

Coordinated by

TAMPEREEN KORKEAKOULUSAATIO SR
Finland

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - TWISTION (Twisted Ions – A novel tool for quantum science)

Reporting period: 2022-09-01 to 2025-02-28

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The project TWISTION aims at generating the first beam of twisted ions, i.e. a freely propagating coherent beam of charged atoms with a twisted phase front. As such, it explores the fundamental wave-particle duality of quantum physics through realizing a charged matter wave with a transverse structure. TWISTION will study in theory as well as experiment novel features of twisted ions which result form the azimuthally varying phase front and its ascribed orbital angular momentum. It aims at delivering a platform that is exclusively built for the investigation of structured matter waves, whose setup can be fully adjusted to any task-specific requirement for both, electrons and ions. As such, it will redefine the state-of-the-art of structured matter waves which are at the interface between optics and atom physics.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

During the initial phase of TWISTION the entirely new experimental setup was designed, built, and tested resulting the establishment of an ultra-high vacuum setup which is ready to explore charged matter waves consisting of electrons and ions. The design enables an inspection of the beam’s shape at two locations, the flexible steering of the beam using electrostatic fields, as well as the shaping of the beam throughout the entire beam line. Additionally, a device to shape the charged mater wave was conceived which will allow a dynamic modulation of the beam with minimal disturbance.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

Benefiting from a dedicated setup for matter waves which is equipped with the latest technologies for charged particles, TWISTION will set the stage for a novel branch in matter wave research branching into atom physics as well as quantum optics. With the first demonstration of structured ionic matter wave, the project will provide a novel tool to study fundamental effects based on the wave-particle duality of quantum science.

Sketch of an ionic matter wave which obtains a twisted phase front after a modulation.