Nonlinear and nonlocal optical response in complex nanostructured multilayers (A05)

• Subject Area: Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics ; Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas
• Term: from 2019 to 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 398816777

The impact of localized effects at nanosized features on the optical response of a complex largescale structure is at the heart of this project. It extends classical methods to describe nonlinear properties of multilayered, ultrathin nanolaminates and other complex metamaterials, such as amorphous composites. A nonlinear theory for multilayered structures is developed from a semiclassical perspective. This includes non-classical electron interaction effects in metal components and additional scattering stemming from rough interfaces. Such complex systems enable a high tunability and amplification of nonlinearities through geo-metrical and material parameters and via local field enhancement phenomena, respectively. These finding support the projects B3|Szeghalmi/Tünnermann and B4|Nolte/Zeitner dealing with amorphous films and hybrid multilayers. With respect to a semiclassical description of electron dynamics, the project will strongly benefit from close collaboration with project A3|Busch/Peschel.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1375: Nonlinear Optics down to Atomic scales (NOA)
• International Connection: Spain
• Applicant Institution: Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena
• Project Heads: Dr. Christin David; Professorin Dr. Stefanie Gräfe