We theoretically investigate the use of Bessel light beams generated using axicons for creating optical dipole traps for cold atoms and atomic waveguiding. Zeroth-order Bessel beams can be used to produce highly elongated dipole traps, allowing for the study of one-dimensional trapped gases and realization of a Tonks gas of impenetrable bosons. First-order Bessel beams are shown to be able to produce tight confined atomic waveguides over centimeter distances.

• Received 15 January 2001

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.63.063602