Switching the current through molecular wires

TL;DR

This paper explores how Gaussian laser pulses can control electron transport in molecular wires, demonstrating current suppression and temporary current induction, with analysis of electron correlation effects.

Contribution

It introduces a model for laser-controlled current switching in molecular wires, including the impact of Gaussian pulses and electron correlation effects.

Findings

Gaussian pulses can suppress or induce current in molecular wires.

Electron correlation influences the current modulation.

Laser parameters determine the occurrence of destructive tunneling.

Abstract

The influence of Gaussian laser pulses on the transport through molecular wires is investigated within a tight-binding model for spinless electrons including correlation. Motivated by the phenomenon of coherent destruction of tunneling for monochromatic laser fields, situations are studied in which the maximum amplitude of the electric field fulfills the conditions for the destructive quantum effect. It is shown that, as for monochromatic laser pulses, the average current through the wire can be suppressed. For parameters of the model, which do not show a net current without any optical field, a Gaussian laser pulse can establish a temporary current. In addition, the effect of electron correlation on the current is investigated.