Projects / Programmes
Cosmology in the lab - femtosecond control of phase transitions in real time.
| Code |
Science |
Field |
Subfield |
| 1.02.01 |
Natural sciences and mathematics |
Physics |
Physics of condesed matter |
| Code |
Science |
Field |
| P260 |
Natural sciences and mathematics |
Condensed matter: electronic structure, electrical, magnetic and optical properties, supraconductors, magnetic resonance, relaxation, spectroscopy |
| Code |
Science |
Field |
| 1.03 |
Natural Sciences |
Physical sciences |
Condensed matter physics, Cosmology in the laboratory, Complex systems, Femtosecond spectroscopy.
Researchers (10)
Organisations (2)
Abstract
We propose an investigation on the coherent temporal dynamics of many-body systems undergoing symmetry-breaking transitions (SBTs) under highly non-equilibrium non-ergodic conditions. The project is centred around a unique new 3-pulse femtosecond spectroscopy technique which allows real-time high resolution investigations of the critical dynamics and order parameter trajectories through SBTs after a laser "quench". The technique, which was recently invented by our group allows the direct observation of the emergence of single-particle fermionic and collective bosonic excitations through the SBT reflecting the trajectory of the order parameter. Using it, we will address fundamental questions on the effect of the properties of underlying microscopic vacua such as symmetry and fundamental interactions on global behaviour described by field theory.
Systems included in our study belong to different universality classes and display structural, charge and spin ordering transitions, the superconducting transition, or competing order (multiferroics). Special attention is to be paid to systems in which the order parameter has universal significance both experimentally and theoretically. Topological defects created in the aftermath of SBTs by the Kibble-Zurek mechanism and the emission and control of collective field oscillations (Higgs waves) will be investigated. The transition trajectories to new states of matter in the non-equilibrium energy landscape will also be investigated in detail. The fundamental and practical implications of coherent trajectory control at bifurcation points (the butterfly effect) will also be studied, addressing theoretical questions of kinetics and dynamics. In the general framework of reductionism, we expect our findings to have fundamental bearing on our understanding of SBTs revealing predictive tell-tale signatures of critical events in areas beyond many-body condensed matter physics, such as in the Higgs mechanism, primordial behaviour and financial systems.
The project represents a world novelty both in terms of experiment and theory and has important implications for control of many body systems for conceptually new data processing and information storage systems on ultrafast timescales.
Significance for science
Molecular electronics is a very rapidly developing field. Many different approaches are being investigated worldwide towards the ultimate goal of creating molecular-scale information processing circuits, sensors and electronics devices in general. Bottom-up approaches have been heralded as the only route for the sub-nanometer devices in the forseable future and it is clear that self-assembly is the only viable method of creating large-scale circuits. We can expect to make a significant contribution to the field by the research into the molecular-scale physics of MoSI wires on different levels. On the lowest level, we will acquire important knowledge on device physics, self-assembly and aggregation processes and the behavior of large-scale self-assembled self-organised critial behaviour of networks. The research will have an impact well beyond the field of MoSI nanowires. The exploitation of new molecular architectures has become today’s economic imperative for technological and industrial innovation. At present probably the greatest show-stopper for the development of even very basic molecular electronics circuits are the interconnects. The absence of a viable technology for connecting molecular switches into larger circuits poses a serious impediment for progress already for a number of years. The proposed project aims to create a revolution in the field of bottom-up molecular circuit design and manufacture by introducing totally new recognitive and highly versatile molecular scale conducting elements. The unique properties of 1D-inorganic nanostructures will be completely and efficiently exploited, launching these extremely novel and promising materials into the real, applicative world. The immediate impact is in the generation of high-profile cutting edge knowledge, and in fostering the education and training of both experienced and young scientists with advanced investigation tools in this hugely competitive field. The research will be published in high-profile, high impact-factor journals (continuing the group’s track record), particularly aiming to publish in Nano Letters and the Nature journals on Nanotechnology, Materials and Physics, as well as other relevant journals.
Significance for the country
Progress in fundamental research serves as a major driving force both for advancing new knowledge and for spurring new technologies. This has been clearly demonstrated by our group following the discovery of new MoSIx molecular wires which hase lead to the formation of a spin-off company, and its central role in the DESYGN it EU project. This demonstrates that the interdisciplinary approach which we are following is essential in order to be able to capitalize on new scientific discoveries. The pressure for applications from the spin-off ensures that any direction which might be promising is pursued with rigour. A problem of Slovenian industry is the relatively low added value of its products which leads to low wages and social unrest. Raising the technological level of its industry can only beachieved by incorporation of new knowledge into its products, which comes with highly qualified and highly trained personnel and other diverse forms of knowledge trasnfer. The research program with its targeted basic research in new materials provides training for such personnel. The knowledge generated in this project will make a great contribution to the formation of an evironment for introduction of innovative techologies, which are a key factor for Slovenia to remain and progress within the circle of socio-economically and culturaly developed nations. The main goal will be the development of new technologies leading eventually to the sucessfull transfer to industrial applications. The production, which is already protected by patent, will be optimised and will enable more rational and effective production of new materials. New materials and matter increase the competitiveness in key segments of Slovene industry. In general, novel nanostructures based on transition coud be of key importance for the development of industry in larger segments, from composites to electronics. Research within this project will contribute significantly to development in nanotechnology in Slovenia and thus strengthen the competitive position of our country in the world. This is a great opportunity to use the existing equipment and obtained knowlege for optimising preparation procedures of unique and highly interesting samples. Besides promotion of our country the new materials are a good basis for further collaborations with leading researchers from all over the world, especially the EU, Japan, China and the US. The combination of synthesis of new structures and precise characterisation of their physical properties will also provide excellent working conditions and will be used for training of perspective researchers.
Most important scientific results
Annual report
2011,
2012,
2013,
final report,
complete report on dLib.si
Most important socioeconomically and culturally relevant results
Annual report
2011,
2012,
2013,
final report,
complete report on dLib.si
