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Ponderomotive electron acceleration in a silicon-based nanoplasmonic waveguide
1Ultrafast Optics and Nanophotonics Research Laboratory, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2V4, Canada.
Physical Review Letters
|November 1, 2014
Summary
Ponderomotive electron acceleration in nanoplasmonic waveguides generates an electron avalanche, leading to broadband white light emission. This demonstrates a new method for ultrafast nonlinear nanoplasmonics.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Materials Science
- Condensed Matter Physics
Background:
- Nanoplasmonic waveguides offer unique light-matter interaction properties.
- Ultrafast nonlinear phenomena are crucial for advanced optical applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate ponderomotive electron acceleration in semiconductor-loaded nanoplasmonic waveguides.
- To investigate the resulting white light emission and electron avalanche dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing semiconductor-loaded nanoplasmonic waveguides.
- Employing pump-probe measurements to visualize electron dynamics.
- Analyzing broadband white light emission spectra.
Main Results:
- Achieved ponderomotive electron acceleration exceeding impact ionization threshold.
- Observed broadband white light emission (375–650 nm).
- Confirmed optical-field-driven electron avalanche with exponential emission growth.
- Measured electron sweeping time of 1.98 ± 0.40 ps.
Conclusions:
- Demonstrated a novel mechanism for electron acceleration and avalanche in nanoplasmonics.
- Established a link between electron dynamics and broadband light generation.
- Opened avenues for harnessing ultrafast nonlinear nanoplasmonics.
