Ultrathin van der Waals crystals for efficient nonlinear light-matter interactions

This technology is an ultrathin periodically poled van der Waals semiconductor (3R-MoS2) that enables efficient broadband quasi-phase matching, high-frequency conversion efficiency, and seamless integration into optical circuits.

Unmet Need: Efficient nonlinear light-matter interactions

Nonlinear optics are essential for classical and quantum sources of radiation, enabling fundamental spectroscopy and optical information processing. Efficient nonlinear light-matter interactions remain challenging for classical and quantum radiation sources. Conventional approaches rely on birefringent crystals like lithium niobate, but their macroscopic thickness limits integration with optical circuits.

The Technology: Ultra-thin van der Waals crystal for efficient frequency conversion and phase matching

This technology introduces a periodically poled van der Waals semiconductor (3R-MoS2) as a new class of nonlinear optical crystal. Its ultra-thin 1 µm thickness allows seamless integration with optical circuits and compact device design, overcoming the limitations of current macroscopic nonlinear crystals. It enables broadband quasi-phase matching and, with exceptional nonlinearity (100–1000 pm/V), achieves record-high frequency conversion efficiency at telecom wavelengths. This microscopic van der Waals crystal holds potential for phase-matched nonlinear optics in on-chip quantum photonics, telecommunications, laser technology, and quantum optics.

Applications:

  • Laser technologies
  • On-chip quantum photonics
  • Optical parametric oscillators
  • Quantum circuits
  • Ultra-thin nonlinear optical devices
  • Wavelength converters

Advantages:

  • Broadband quasi-phase matching
  • Record-high single-pass conversion efficiency
  • Seamless integration with ultrathin 1 µm design
  • Enhanced nonlinear response

Lead Inventor:

P. James Schuck, Ph.D.

Patent Information:

Patent Pending

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