Sum-frequency generation


Sum-frequency generation is a second order nonlinear optical process based on the annihilation of two input photons at angular frequencies and while, simultaneously, one photon at frequency is generated. As with any second order phenomenon in nonlinear optics, this can only occur under conditions where:
the light is interacting with matter, which is asymmetric ;
the light has a very high intensity.
Sum-frequency generation is a "parametric process", meaning that the photons satisfy energy conservation, leaving the matter unchanged:

Second-harmonic generation

A special case of sum-frequency generation is second-harmonic generation, in which ω1=ω2. In fact, in experimental physics, this is the most common type of sum-frequency generation. This is because in second-harmonic generation, only one input light beam is required, but if ω1≠ω2, 2 simultaneous beams are required, which can be more difficult to arrange. In practice, the term "sum-frequency generation" usually refers to the less common case where ω1≠ω2.

Phase-matching

For sum-frequency generation to occur efficiently, a condition called phase-matching must be satisfied:
where are the angular wavenumbers of the three waves as they travel through the medium. As this condition is satisfied more and more accurately, the sum-frequency generation becomes more and more efficient. Also, as sum-frequency generation occurs over a longer and longer length, the phase-matching must become more and more accurate.

Sum frequency generation spectroscopy

uses two laser beams mixed at a surface to generate an output beam with a frequency equal to the sum of the two input frequencies. Sum frequency generation spectroscopy is used to analyze surfaces and interfaces.