Team

Nano-optomechanics & Nano-phonics

Scientific activity

The “Nano-optomechanics & Nano-phononics” team focuses on the study, control and applications of vibrations in nanostructures, a fast-growing field of research. These phenomena can occur in a very wide range of frequencies. At C2N, based on technological know-how, several devices (suspended membranes, photonic crystal cavities, micro-pillars, etc.) are used to cover a wide range of frequencies, from a few hundred kHz to a few THz (see Figure). The manufacture of such nanodevices brings with it a host of experimental challenges to probe and control these vibrations. Complementary experimental techniques (Brownian motion, pump-probe experiments, etc.) have been developed and are now available, depending on the structures studied and their frequencies.

The diversity and maturity achieved by the team, as well as the existing know-how within C2N, create the perfect conditions to go beyond single-oscillator systems. Our current challenges involve interfacing these systems with each other in both the classical and quantum regimes. This will open up new avenues not only for fundamental aspects, but also for the engineering of new optomechanical technologies.

© Rémy Braive, 20 septembre 2022.

Figure: Working frequencies and nanostructures studied by the “Nano-optomechanics & Nano-phononics” team.