Interactions of the Twisted Light with Quantum Systems at Sub-Wavelength Scales
Abstract
The main objective of this project is development of theoretical and computational framework for the interaction of optical vortices (or twisted light) with quantum systems such as atoms, ions, atomic nuclei and quantum dots. Unique properties of the twisted light will be analyzed, and numerical predictions provided for excitation rates and polarization asymmetries. The questions will be addressed on the efficiency of optical vortices for excitation of high-multipole transitions in a variety of quantum systems. Applications include (a) propagation of optical vortices in materials; (b) excitation and energy storage by long-living atomic and nuclear quantum states; (c) forbidden transitions in atomic matter and condensed matter; (d) novel quantum phenomena with twisted photons (Compton scattering and pair production). The proposed technical approach is based on the extension of verified formalism of quantum mechanics and quantum electrodynamics to the beams with large transverse-density gradients that are characterized by phase singularities. Particular attention will be paid to spin-dependence of twisted-photon interaction to help identify topological properties of the orbital-angular-momentum light interacting with a variety of sub-wavelength targets. The results obtained with semi-analytical and numerical approaches will be presented in a form suitable for high-performance computer simulations. The project s research will be a subject of Ph.D. dissertation of GWU physics graduate student, and for several undergraduate research projects, helping to establish a platform for training of next-generation researchers for Army and Department of Defense research laboratories. The outcome of the research will result in the development of long-term capabilities for Army, as well as for short-term applications providing for existing Army needs in generation and detection of the structured light by sub-wavelength size sensors, robust and secure optical communications, and efficient energy storage by atomic and nuclear excited states.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 14, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1910022
Entities
People
- Andrei Afanasev
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- George Washington University
- United States Army