The Power of Nonlinear Optics: Manipulating Light

Nonlinear optics is a phenomenon where the interaction between light and a material changes the properties of the light beam. This property is crucial for processing information carried by light, as it enables the manipulation of the beam's shape, direction, and frequency. In traditional telecommunications, data signals are converted from light to electricity at each point where the signal changes fibers, introducing delays and heat generation. The nonlinear optical response in WSe2 offers a groundbreaking alternative, allowing for the processing of information using only a small number of photons of light.