Future Paths in Cryogenic Single-Molecule Fluorescence Spectroscopy

The Journal of Physical Chemistry C, vol. 128, pp. 3–18

Abstract

In the last three decades, cryogenic single-molecule fluorescence spectroscopy has provided average-free understanding of the photophysics and of fundamental interactions at molecular scales. Furthermore, they propose original pathways and applications in the treatment and storage of quantum information. The ultranarrow lifetime-limited zero-phonon line acts as an excellent sensor to local perturbations caused either by intrinsic dynamical degrees of freedom, or by external perturbations, such as those caused by electric fields, elastic and acoustic deformations, or light-induced dynamics. Single aromatic hydrocarbon molecules, being sensitive to nanoscale probing at nanometer scales, are potential miniaturized platforms for integrated quantum photonics. In this Perspective, we look back at some of the past advances in cryogenic optical microscopy and propose some perspectives for future development.

Authors 3

1. Subhasis Adhikari corresponding Aachen Huygens-Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   Huygens−Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory, Leiden University, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands

2. Robert Smit Aachen Huygens-Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   Huygens−Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory, Leiden University, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands

3. Michel Orrit corresponding Aachen Huygens-Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   Huygens−Kamerlingh Onnes Laboratory, Leiden University, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands