Traps for Quantum Sensing

What is quantum sensing and why does it require ultra-precision glass microstructures?

Quantum sensing is driving a new era of ultra-precise measurement systems. From optical atomic clocks to precision spectroscopy, these technologies demand extreme mechanical stability, optical alignment accuracy, and long-term vacuum compatibility.

What glass microstructures does FEMTOPRINT fabricate for quantum sensing platforms?

At FEMTOPRINT, we fabricate custom 3D glass microstructures with micrometric tolerances, ideal for high-performance quantum sensing platforms. Our proprietary femtosecond laser microfabrication enables fully monolithic integration of optical and mechanical features—reducing drift, minimizing assembly errors, and enhancing performance in UHV environments.

Technical Highlights

• Geometrical precision: ±1 µm XY / ±2 µm Z
• Surface roughness on machined surfaces 100-300 nm, < 10 nm if postprocessing is applied
• Aspect ratio: ≥ 1:500 for stable optical cavities
• Deposition of metallic coatings with sputtering or evaporation techniques
• Vacuum-compatible dielectric coatings available on request
• Material: Fused silica (SiO₂), ULE®, and custom optical glasses
• Integration: Optical waveguides, fiducials, and micro-optical cavities

Applications in Quantum Sensing

• Optical lattice clocks with accuracy beyond 10⁻¹⁸ fractional frequency instability

• Precision molecular spectroscopy for quantum reference standards

• Compact interferometric sensors for acceleration, gravity, and field detection

• Ion and neutral atom traps for portable timekeeping systems

Structures produced for quantum sensing applications include:

Ion trap substrates for optical atomic clocks 

Optical cavity spacers and reference cells 

Neutral atom trap structures 

Interferometric sensor housings 

Micro-optical cavities 

Why is monolithic glass fabrication essential for quantum sensing performance?

FEMTOPRINT technology for Quantum Sensing:

• No bonding or assembly: Monolithic structures to reduce alignment error and instability
• Multi-layer structures bonded through laser welding
• Wafer-scale fabrication enables scalability and repeatability
• UHV and cryo-compatible designs for long-duration quantum experiments
• Trusted by quantum labs, OEMs, and academic researchers across Europe and the U.S.

Get in touch with us to explore cutting-edge solutions for quantum sensing applications!