Quantum critical electro-optic and piezo-electric nonlinearities.
basic_science · Level V
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- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 41129638.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1126/science.adx8657.
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Abstract
Although electro-optic (EO) nonlinearities are essential for many quantum and classical photonics applications, a major challenge is inefficient modulation in cryogenic environments. Guided by the connection between phase transitions and nonlinearity, we identify the quantum paraelectric perovskite SrTiO<sub>3</sub> as a strong cryogenic EO [>500 picometers per volt (pm/V)] and piezo-electric material (>90 picocoulombs per newton) at <i>T</i> = 5 K, at frequencies to at least 1 megahertz. Furthermore, by tuning SrTiO<sub>3</sub> toward quantum criticality, we more than double the EO and piezo-electric effects, demonstrating a linear Pockels coefficient above 1000 pm/V. Our results probe the link between quantum phase transitions, dielectric susceptibility, and nonlinearity, unlocking opportunities in cryogenic optical and mechanical systems and providing a framework for discovering new nonlinear materials.