Nanoantenna-enhanced difference-frequency generation in 2D transition metal dichalcogenides

Abstract

In this project, the visiting scholar and the academic host in Germany will work in synergy, together with their research groups, in order to design, fabricate and test nanostructures consisting of monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) and dielectric nanoantennas and/or metasurfaces for the observation of nonlinear frequency conversion via difference frequency generation. Resonancewith 2D excitons of the TMDs and with nanoantenna modes will provide a double resonance condition that enhances the frequency conversion. This nonlinear optical process, which has been scarcely studied in 2D materials, can allow for the generation of waves in various spectral ranges, including the mid infrared, that can be used for a number of applications, such bio- and chemical sensing. The visit is intended as a first step towards a longer-term collaboration that combines expertise from both sides, and for which further funding will be sought, not only in Brazil, but also in Germany.