High-flux photon-pair source from electrically induced parametric down conversion after second-harmonic generation in...

Area of Science:

• Nonlinear optics
• Quantum optics
• Materials science

Background:

• Second-harmonic generation (SHG) and parametric down conversion (PDC) are key nonlinear optical processes.
• Lithium niobate optical superlattices (OSLs) offer tunable nonlinear properties.
• Integrating multiple nonlinear effects in a single OSL is challenging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and theoretically analyze a novel high-flux photon-pair source.
• To investigate the combined effects of SHG, PDC, and electro-optic (EO) effects in a single OSL.
• To demonstrate the potential of OSLs for efficient quantum light generation and electro-optic switching.

Main Methods:

• Development of a united theory treating SHG, PDC, and EO effects as two-order nonlinear effects.
• Modeling of photon conversion processes within a specifically engineered OSL structure.
• Numerical simulations to predict device performance under specific conditions (temperature, electric field, laser parameters).

Main Results:

• A single OSL with combined quasi-periodic and periodic poling can generate high-purity photon pairs.
• Near 100% conversion efficiency for photon-pair generation is predicted at 100°C with a 30V/mm electric field.
• The device exhibits potential for ultra-low field electro-optic switching.

Conclusions:

• The proposed OSL design offers a promising route to high-flux, high-purity photon-pair sources.
• The integrated nonlinear approach simplifies device architecture and enhances efficiency.
• This technology has implications for quantum information processing and optical communications.