Near-infrared single-photons from aligned molecules in ultrathin crystalline films at room temperature

TL;DR

This study demonstrates that Dibenzoterrylene molecules in ultrathin crystalline films emit stable, high-rate near-infrared single photons at room temperature, suitable for nanophotonics and quantum optics applications.

Contribution

It reveals the orientation, stability, and high photon emission rates of DBT molecules in ultrathin crystalline films at room temperature, advancing single-photon source development.

Findings

Dipole moments are parallel to the film plane.

Photostability persists at room temperature.

Photon count rates reach around one million per second.

Abstract

We investigate the optical properties of Dibenzoterrylene (DBT) molecules in a spin-coated crystalline film of anthracence. By performing single molecule studies, we show that the dipole moments of the DBT molecules are oriented parallel to the plane of the film. Despite a film thickness of only 20 nm, we observe an exceptional photostability at room temperature and photon count rates around one million per second from a single molecule. These properties together with an emission wavelength around 800 nm make this system attractive for applications in nanophotonics and quantum optics.