Ultrafast Cathodoluminescence Spectroscopy with Coherent Electron-Driven Photon Sources

The project aims to develop a low-cost electron-probe technique for visualizing nano-optical excitations and decoherence dynamics at nanometer and femtosecond resolutions in various materials.

Subsidie
€ 150.000
2024

Projectdetails

Introduction

Exploring the optical responses of materials at the nanoscale is central to various fields of study, including quantum-sensitive measurement metrologies, photovoltaics, and optoelectronic devices. Electron probes have established themselves as important tools for visualizing nano-optical excitations with unprecedented spatial resolution.

Challenges in Visualization

However, controlling optical excitations and exploring their decoherence dynamics require visualizing the dynamics of the nano-world at sub-femtosecond temporal resolutions.

Project Overview

Within the context of our ERC Starting Grant "NanoBeam," we have established and proposed an electron-probe technique that not only allows us to explore dynamics at nanometer spatial and femtosecond temporal resolutions but also does so at a low cost. Unlike state-of-the-art ultrafast electron microscopy, our method does not rely on external laser excitations but rather on internal electron-driven photon sources.

Methodology

To visualize the decoherence dynamics in a variety of systems, we plan to merge the electron-driven photon sources with a cathodoluminescence spectroscopy setup based on optical fiber technology.

Design Considerations

We will design:

  • Piezo stages
  • Sample holders

These will enable precise alignment and tuning of the sample, electron-driven photon sources, and fibers inside the microscope while efficiently collecting cathodoluminescence photons.

Photon Source Design

Our electron-driven photon sources are designed to facilitate a high photon yield, allowing for optimal investigation of nonlinear processes.

Applications

The instrument will be tested and verified for applications in:

  1. Mapping the decoherence dynamics of quantum emitters coupled to photonic structures
  2. Optical excitations in two-dimensional materials
  3. Charge transfer dynamics in photovoltaic devices

Financiële details & Tijdlijn

Financiële details

Subsidiebedrag€ 150.000
Totale projectbegroting€ 150.000

Tijdlijn

Startdatum1-2-2024
Einddatum31-7-2025
Subsidiejaar2024

Partners & Locaties

Projectpartners

  • CHRISTIAN-ALBRECHTS-UNIVERSITAET ZU KIELpenvoerder

Land(en)

Germany

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