Nonlinear and Linear Optical Characterization of Entangled Triplet States in Oligoacenes Using Ultrafast Laser Spectroscopy

Singlet fission (SF) in oligoacenes offers a transformative approach to quantum information science by generating entangled, spin-correlated triplet-pair states (CTPS) that can remain stable for room temperature quantum applications. To fully harness these states for technological use, it is critical to decode their complex dynamics. By employing ultrafast nonlinear optical characterization specifically the Z-scan technique, this research aims to map the nonlinear refractive and absorptive responses of oligoacenes under high-intensity laser excitation, expanding the current understanding of spin manifolds produced during the SF process. The study will investigate SF across diverse environments, including solutions, thin films, and heterostructures, to determine how different physical surroundings influence exciton behavior. Furthermore, the integration of polarization-dependent measurements will clarify how the inherent anisotropic nature of crystalline thin films dictates the decoherence and transport of spin information. This interdisciplinary effort, bridging synthetic organic chemistry with advanced ultrafast spectroscopy, establishes a robust academic framework for the exchange of specialized fabrication and characterization techniques between the participating institutions. By merging these fields to engineer materials for novel applications, the collaboration enhances collective research capacity and advances the global expertise essential for successfully integrating current semiconductor science with next-generation photonics and quantum technologies.

Faculty Supervisor:

Karthik Shankar

Student:

Partner:

Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Alberta

Program: