Molecular and solid-state topological polaritons induced by population imbalance

Area of Science:

• Quantum optics
• Condensed matter physics
• Materials science

Background:

• Exciton-polaritons exhibit enhanced nonlinearities due to strong light-matter coupling.
• Topological properties in materials offer unique electronic and optical functionalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To theoretically investigate optical control of topological properties in molecular and solid-state exciton-polariton systems.
• To exploit the nonlinearity of electronic transition saturation for topological modification.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical investigation of exciton-polariton systems within a Fabry-Perot cavity.
• Optical pumping with circularly polarized light to modify Berry curvature.
• Analysis of three different material systems to demonstrate broad applicability.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated modification of Berry curvature in diverse materials via optical pumping.
• Achieved nonzero Chern invariants through optical control.
• Observed that bulk-boundary correspondence is not applicable, preventing unidirectional edge states.

Conclusions:

• Developed a versatile optical scheme to control topological properties of exciton-polaritons.
• Highlighted the potential for engineering novel optoelectronic materials with tunable topological characteristics.