Beyond Fowler-Nordheim model: Harmonic generation from metallic nano-structures

TL;DR

This paper extends the Fowler-Nordheim model to predict new nonlinear optical responses, specifically harmonic generation, from metallic nano-structures under intense optical pulses, revealing novel phenomena beyond electron emission.

Contribution

It generalizes the Fowler-Nordheim model to include nonlinear optical effects, specifically harmonic generation, in metallic nano-structures exposed to intense light.

Findings

Prediction of harmonic generation from metallic nano-structures

Identification of nonlinear optical response beyond electron emission

Extension of Fowler-Nordheim model to optical phenomena

Abstract

Metallic structures interacting with electromagnetic fields are known to exhibit properties similar to those found in atoms and molecules, such as multi-photon and tunnel ionization. Developing this similarity beyond the electron emission current, we generalize the wellknown Fowler-Nordheim model, and predict heretofore unrecognized source of nonlinear optical response from nano-structures exposed to illumination with intense optical pulses.