Closed-cycle cryostat for low-temperature hybrid nanophotonic systems

• Subject Area: Condensed Matter Physics ; Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas
• Term: Funded in 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 469401491

We aim to expand our capabilities and endeavors in the research of hybrid nanophotonic structures and low-dimensional materials by requesting a closed-cycle cryostat system offering fast, stable temperature control, and optical access for high-resolution spectroscopy. The system will be integrated in our optical spectroscopy laboratories and combined with ultrafast laser excitation schemes, for linear and non-linear optical investigation. This will represent a unique experimental approach to expand our efforts in the research of low-dimensional materials, in particular 2D semiconductors and perovskites. By suppressing thermal excitations, we aim to unveil the intrinsic optical properties of nanomaterials and to maximize their light-matter interaction when integrated with optical nanocavities. The equipment will also aid in a new field of research starting in our group, the study of single photon emitters, where the control of the sample temperature is not only highly desirable, but also necessary, in order to suppress detrimental processes reducing the efficiency and brightness of quantum light sources. The preferred cryostat system is characterized by its compactness, allowing the installation on existing optical tables, and by the rapid and stable control of the sample environment over a wide range of temperatures (3-350 K), while providing windows for optical access. With this cryostat system our intention is to realize a unique experimental setup, combining fine temperature control and ultrafast laser spectroscopy with high wavelength tenability, opening to realization of new approaches for investigating the optical properties of low-dimensional nanomaterials and their photonic applications.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: Optischer Closed-Cycle Kryostat
• Instrumentation Group: 8550 Spezielle Kryostaten (für tiefste Temperaturen)
• Applicant Institution: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
• Leader: Professor Dr. Stefan Maier