Thermo-Optical Response of High-Temperature Superconducting Films

Abstract - Zhang This award is to investigate the thermo-optical response of high temperature superconducting films at a fundamental level. Understanding the mechanisms of electron-phonon interaction within the film and the energy transport at the film-substrate interface is crucial for many devices. However, because of their complex chemical structure, these interactions in these films have not been fully understood. Temperature and wavelength dependent radiative properties will be measured. In addition the effects of film thickness and microstructure on electron scattering will also be examined. The feasibility of building ultrafast radiation modulators will be experimentally investigated. The results will benefit further development of radiation modulators, infrared detectors, and other optoelectronic devices which can be used for remote sensing of the ocean and the atmosphere.