Atomic Vapor Actuators

This paper presents the reversible actuation of alkali vapor pressure using devices based on the solid electrolyte beta”-alumina. We demonstrate electrical actuation that gives a dynamic range of 20X in the alkali vapor density in 1 s, which is a IOX improvement over prior work. This is achieved through a combination of low alkali adsorption energy cell-wall coatings, finer sub-micron pitch electrodes, and elevated device operation temperature. This is an enabling component technology for compact atomic clocks and sensors.