Advancing the characterization of solids: from rocks to quantum materials

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Modern science and engineering rely more and more extensively on the utilization of technologically advanced forms of spectroscopy. In fields as diverse as medicine, biology, physics, chemistry, and material science, there is a constant effort to develop novel spectroscopic tools and techniques as they play a fundamental role in the generation of new intuition, concepts, and understandings. Ultrafast spectroscopy employs femtosecond optical pulses to probe materials on ultrashort time scales. The research program encompasses two separate thrusts. First, these pulses can create controlled non-equilibrium electronic conditions to reveal physical properties not accessible at equilibrium. Generally, these photonic-based coherent control methods are implemented to drive and control internal quantum states in the condensed phase and are critical towards the full understanding, as well as eventual practical implementation, of quantum materials (QM) for future quantum technologies. Toward this end we pursue the development of new/customized femtosecond laser sources and accompanying spectroscopic techniques - such as time- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy - to unravel properties of QM. By applying expertise in ultrafast optics, material growth and condensed matter, the research program aims to meet the extreme requirements of these sources enabling the photonic manipulation of quantum states and phases. Second, the development of a new visible/near ultraviolet Dual Frequency Comb Spectroscopy (DFCS) system for optical spectroscopy of ablation plasmas initially, and QM characterization in the longer term. DFCS has emerged as a technique combining high frequency resolution, broad spectral coverage and rapid acquisition for spectroscopic probing of materials, but there is a lack of DFCS sources in the visible spectral region. Our short-term goal is to develop a broad instantaneous DFCS comb source with high spectral brightness and tuneability. We will use this source to develop real time sorting of mining ore based on elemental and mineralogical composition. Longer term, this source will be integrated into a multidimensional coherent spectroscopy system for studying coupling and coherence in QM. By adapting approaches and refining expertise established in optical physics, we are constructing new laser-based ultrafast spectroscopy sources and associated techniques and applying them to unlock the vast potential of QM - from solar harvesting windows to qubits for quantum computing. Our efforts will also improve the mining sustainability through improve ore sorting technology. More broadly, this proposed research program will provide HQP with unique technical skills along with enhanced leadership training, ensuring that they are able to emerge as leaders ready to meet the demands of both academia and industry. Ultimately, supporting collaborative and innovative research like mine will ensure that Canada's position as a global leader grows.