Special PME Quantum Seminar - Yinan Dong

Nano-optics of quantum materials

In this talk, I will first introduce the cryogenic multi-messenger scanning nearfield optical microscopy (SNOM) technique and its applications in the study of quantum materials. I will then present my recent findings on two material systems: graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). Using nano-infrared imaging methodologies, we discovered Fizeau drag in graphene plasmonics which breaks optical reciprocity, and nano-photocurrents that stem from nonequilibrium effects. In addition, through photoluminescence mapping, we identified a new class of flat-band excitons in super-twisted spiral TMDs. Finally, I will conclude with a summary of my current studies and an outlook toward the quantum regimes.