Quantum Metrology IV

We discuss recent advances in electrode-free, in-situ electric field sensing in low-temperature plasmas using Rydberg electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT). Understanding the interaction between discharge plasmas and excitation levels of alkali atoms is essential for developing Rydberg-EIT as a diagnostic tool for plasma electric field sensing. We examine the dynamics of Rubidium atoms in a pulsed RF plasma through sub-Doppler and EIT spectroscopy. The RF discharge is generated in an inductively coupled plasma chamber containing a few mTorr of Argon seeded with Rubidium vapor. Time-resolved measurements of Rubidium density within the discharge volume exhibit signatures of plasma-induced atomic desorption and Penning ionization driven by Argon metastable atoms. We present progress toward electric field sensing using EIT spectroscopy and discuss future implications for plasma diagnostics

Funding acknowledgement

This project was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, Office of Fusion Energy Sciences under award number DE-SC0023090