Cold atoms in dissipative optical lattices

We present a review of the work done with dissipative optical lattices so far. A dissipative optical lattice is achieved when a light field provides both velocity damping and spatial periodicity of the atomic density. We introduce the geometric properties of optical lattices using a classical model for the atoms. We discuss the Sisyphus cooling mechanism and its extension to different optical lattices, and we present the main theoretical approaches used to describe the atomic dynamics in optical lattices. The major experimental tools and studies are then discussed. This includes pump–probe spectroscopy, experiments based on fluorescence, Bragg scattering and studies of atomic interactions. We also present different phenomena occurring in the presence of an additional static magnetic field. Atomic nanolithography is finally briefly discussed as an application of optical lattices.