Atomic frequency comb memory in an isotopically pure Nd-143(3+):(YLiF4)-Li-7 crystal

摘要

We implemented the atomic frequency comb protocol for optical quantum memory in an isotopically pure crystal of (YLiF4)-Li-7 doped by Nd-143(3+) ions. Echo signals were observed on the I-4(9/2)(1)-F-4(3/2)(1) transition, which had inhomogeneous broadening much smaller than the hyperfine splitting of the ground and excited states. We performed hole-burning spectroscopy measurements on several transitions, obtaining information about the hyperfine state lifetimes. An intrinsic hole structure was found on some of the transitions, which allowed us to prepare a comb structure with two clearly defined periods and to observe echo pulses with different time delays.