New laser emits matter waves
The matter-wave emitting laser becomes possible by the laws of quantum mechanics at temperatures close to absolute zero, where atoms reveal their wave nature.
The matter-wave laser uses a gas of rubidium atoms. The gas is captured in a magnetic trap then cooled to near absolute zero to reach the Bose-Einstein condensation. The gas atoms then lose their identity and behave as a single entity, a sort of super atom.
Researchers then use a radiofrequency field to flip the atomic spin so that atoms are allowed to escape from the magnetic trap. In a vacuum the atoms are accelerated by gravity and form a parallel beam of coherent matter waves.
This type of laser will make it possible to accurately deposit atoms at a nanoscale level. The laser could spray an accurate coating of atoms onto surfaces - for example - to create nanostructure miniature computer circuits.
The article will be published in Physical Review Letters.