Achieving a Near-Ideal Silicon Crystal Neutron Interferometer using Sub-Micron Fabrication Techniques

• DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2402.16127
• Publication Date: 2024-02-25
• Authors: M. G. Huber; Ivar Taminiau; David G. Cory; B. Heacock; D. Sarenac; R. Valdillez; D. A. Pushin
• Keywords: Crystal (programming language)

Perfect-crystal neutron interferometry which is analogous to Mach-Zehnder interferometry, uses Bragg diffraction form interfering paths. The measured phase shifts can be used probe many types of interactions whether it nuclear, electromagnetic, gravitational, or topological in nature. For a perfect-crystal interferometer preserve coherence, the crystal must possess high degree dimensional tolerance as well being relatively defect-free with minimal internal stresses. In past, interferometers have been produced by two step process. First, resin diamond wheel would remove excess material and shape interferometer. Afterword, etched order surface defects elevate strains. This process has had limitations terms repeatability maximizing final contrast, fringe visibility, We tested various fabrication post-fabrication techniques on single interferometer's performance at each step. Here we report robust, repeatable non-etching contrast. this work, achieved contrasts greater than 90% several separate times ultimately finished an that 92% contrast uniform distribution.