Combo Raman and non-linear optics, the ultimate weapon for probing symmetry

April 17, 2025, 11am, CEMES (coffee offered at 10.30am)

Conference room + Zoom 

by Jérémie Teyssier, Coordinator of the Advanced Technology Laboratory , Senior scientist at Department of Quantum Matter Physics, University of Geneva

We have designed an innovative system capable of simultaneously measuring two types of optical signals: the Raman response and second harmonic generation, measred at the microscopic scale and with extreme precision. To achieve this goal, we fully automated our spectrometer, which significantly improved the quality of the data obtained.

Beyond technical advances, we will share good (and bad!) practices for successful Raman measurement. We will also show how a Raman spectrometer can serve not only as an analysis tool, but also as an oven and thermometric probe. Thanks to this unique approach, it is now possible to study complex physical phenomena, such as phase transitions and symmetry breaking in ferroelectric materials, without requiring an external oven. Our system therefore makes it possible to explore extreme temperatures, up to 2000°C, with unrivaled precision.

We will illustrate the potential of this instrument through various application examples such as rare earth nickelates, multiferroic materials, 2D materials, and some first measurements in biology.

Finally, we will discuss the patented developments resulting from this project and the ongoing steps to transform this technology into a marketable product.

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