Polariton tweezers

Abstract

The non-invasive, deterministic manipulation of charge carriers remains a fundamental challenge in solid-state quantum technologies. Here, we demonstrate the concept of dynamic polariton tweezers capable of trapping and transporting electrons across a two-dimensional electron system via the long-range electrostatic potential of dipolar (d-) exciton-polaritons. By driving a semiconductor microcavity with a specifically engineered, non-collinear three-beam optical pump with TE-polarization, we synthesize a macroscopic polariton lattice with hexagonal symmetry. The spatially periodic field of this d-polariton condensate acts as a reconfigurable trapping landscape for the electrons. We show that introducing targeted frequency detunings between the continuous-wave pumps strictly breaks the spatiotemporal symmetry of the system, converting the stationary macroscopic interference pattern into a dynamically moving conveyor belt. By precisely customizing these frequency detunings, the entire lattice - along with the electrostatically trapped electrons - can be rigidly driven in any arbitrary in-plane direction. This precise phase-matching mechanism bypasses the need for a net kinetic momentum transfer, establishing a robust, optically controlled platform for the long-range routing of charged particles and topological defects in driven-dissipative quantum fluids.