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Mid-Infrared Modulation of Quantum Emitters in Hexagonal Boron Nitride
Karin Yamamura1,2, Xinyang Yu1,2, Chaohao Chen1,2
1School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, New South Wales 2007, Australia.
Nano Letters
|May 4, 2026
Summary
We discovered a new way to boost single-photon emitter (SPE) light using mid-infrared light. This method non-destructively enhances quantum emitter emission for quantum technologies.
Area of Science:
- Quantum Optics
- Materials Science
- Solid-State Physics
Background:
- Single-photon emitters (SPEs) are crucial for quantum technologies.
- Current excitation methods (visible light) are inefficient and poorly understood.
- Hexagonal boron nitride hosts promising SPEs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate mid-infrared (MIR) excitation of SPEs in hexagonal boron nitride.
- To develop a novel method for enhancing SPE emission.
- To explore phonon-assisted recombination mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing mid-infrared (MIR) coexcitation.
- Resonantly driving defect-localized optical phonon modes (~7.3 μm).
- Analyzing carrier dynamics and emission enhancement.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated a reversible, nondestructive enhancement of blue SPE emission.
- Identified MIR excitation modulating carrier dynamics via phonon-assisted recombination.
- Observed a unique interaction not previously seen in solid-state defects.
Conclusions:
- MIR coexcitation offers a novel, non-destructive route to control quantum emitters.
- Phonon-assisted recombination provides a new mechanism for modulating SPEs.
- This technique advances room-temperature control of quantum emitters for practical applications.
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