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Abstract
In 3D isotropic liquids, optical third-harmonic generation is forbidden, with circularly polarized light (CPL). Yet the associated nonlinear susceptibility directly influences the optical properties at the fundamental frequency by intensity dependence (Kerr effect). Here, the hidden third-harmonic optical properties upon CPL illumination are revealed by demonstrating a new effect, in hyper-Rayleigh scattering. This effect is succinctly enunciated: the intensity of light scattered at the third-harmonic frequency of the CPL incident light depends on the chirality of the scatterers. It is referred to as third-harmonic (hyper) Rayleigh scattering optical activity (THRS OA) and was observed from Ag nanohelices randomly dispersed in water. The first analytical theory model for the new effect in nanohelices is also provided, highlighting the role of localized transition dipoles along the helical length. THRS OA is remarkably user-friendly. It offers access to intricate optical properties (hyperpolarizabilities) that have so far been more easily accessible by computation and that are essential for the understanding of light−matter interactions. The new effect could find applications in hyper-sensitive characterization of the chirality in molecules and in nanostructures; this chirality plays a fundamental role in the function of bio/nano-machinery, with promising applications in next generation technologies.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 2100235 |
Journal | Laser and Photonics Reviews |
Volume | 15 |
Issue number | 11 |
Early online date | 15 Sept 2021 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 30 Nov 2021 |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:V.K.V. acknowledges support from the Royal Society through the University Research Fellowships and the Royal Society grants PEF1∖170015, ICA∖R1∖201088, and RGF∖EA∖180228, as well as, the STFC grant ST/R005842/1. L.O. and V.K.V. acknowledge funding and support from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Centre for Doctoral Training in Condensed Matter Physics (CDT‐CMP), Grant No. EP/L015544/1. V.K.V. further acknowledges EPSRC grant EP/T001046/1. D.M.R. and G.D.P. acknowledge support from the EPSRC through grant EPSRC DTP EB‐ BB1250.
Keywords
- chirality
- metamaterials
- nanophotonics
- nonlinear optics
- plasmonics
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
- Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
- Condensed Matter Physics
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Look into my eyes
Valev, V. (PI)
Science and Technology Facilities Council
1/02/18 → 31/03/20
Project: Research council
Datasets
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Dataset for "Optical activity in third-harmonic Rayleigh scattering: a new route for measuring chirality"
Ohnoutek, L. (Creator), Jones, R. (Creator), Olohan, B. (Creator), Rasadean, D.-M. (Creator), Pantos, D. (Creator) & Valev, V. (Creator), University of Bath, 17 Sept 2021
DOI: 10.15125/BATH-01064
Dataset