Polariton condensates put in motion

Nanotechnology. 2010 Apr 2;21(13):134025. doi: 10.1088/0957-4484/21/13/134025. Epub 2010 Mar 8.

Abstract

We present several examples of the interesting phenomenology shown by a moving polariton condensate in semiconductor microcavities. The superfluid behavior is probed by colliding the polariton condensate against physical obstacles in the form of natural defects of the sample, demonstrating a clear suppression of scattering when the speed of the flow lies below the critical velocity. At higher velocities Cerenkov-like shock waves around the defect and disruption of the condensate are also observed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't