Dissipative optomechanics in high-frequency nanomechanical resonators

Area of Science:

• Quantum physics
• Nanotechnology
• Optomechanics

Background:

• Coherent transduction between microwave and optical domains is crucial for quantum networks.
• High-frequency nanomechanical resonators interacting with optical modes offer a promising solution.
• Current optomechanical devices primarily use dispersive interactions, limiting control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the first dissipative optomechanical system operating in the sideband-resolved regime.
• To explore the impact of high-frequency dissipative optomechanical coupling on mechanical and optical spectra.
• To enable quantum state transfer between photonic and phononic domains.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a novel dissipative optomechanical system.
• Operating in the sideband-resolved regime (mechanical frequency > optical linewidth).
• Investigating the acousto-optic interplay through photon scattering.

Main Results:

• Achieved a two-order-of-magnitude increase in mechanical frequency.
• Demonstrated a tenfold increase in the dissipative optomechanical coupling rate.
• Observed significant reshaping of mechanical and optical spectra due to dissipative coupling.

Conclusions:

• This work establishes a new regime for dissipative optomechanics with significantly enhanced parameters.
• The findings pave the way for advanced quantum state transfer and improved optomechanical devices.
• Future applications include individual addressing of mechanical modes and mitigation of optical losses.