Theoretical description of high-order harmonic generation in solids

TL;DR

This paper provides a theoretical framework for high-order harmonic generation in solids, accounting for scattering, pulse variations, and material properties, successfully explaining experimental observations and the robustness of harmonic spectra.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive theoretical model that incorporates realistic band structures and scattering effects to explain high harmonic generation in solids.

Findings

Harmonic spectra are robust against scattering effects.

Odd harmonics dominate in inversion-symmetric materials.

Pulse characteristics significantly influence harmonic spectra.

Abstract

We consider several aspects of high-order harmonic generation in solids: the effects of elastic and inelastic scattering; varying pulse characteristics; and inclusion of material-specific parameters through a realistic band structure. We reproduce many observed characteristics of high harmonic generation experiments in solids including the formation of only odd harmonics in inversion-symmetric materials, and the nonlinear formation of high harmonics with increasing field. We find that the harmonic spectra are fairly robust against elastic and inelastic scattering. Furthermore, we find that the pulse characteristics play an important role in determining the harmonic spectra.