Interactions in weak and strong coupling regimes (II)

When molecules are strongly coupled to an optical resonator such as an optical cavity or plasmonic mode, and new hybrid states are formed, the material properties of the entire system can be expected to be altered. While the first studies of strongly coupled molecules date back to 1982, they were focused on the optical aspects of coupling, and it's only since 2012 that the first report on property modification has been published. This study shows that the kinetics and yield of a photochemical reaction are altered under strong coupling. The effects of strong coupling on chemical reactivity are even more surprising when coupling the vibrational transitions of molecules in the infrared. We can then see modifications to reaction mechanisms and even catalytic effects. The properties of solid materials can also be changed by strong coupling. For example, the conductivity of organic semiconductors can be enhanced, as can energy transfer between molecules. Results of this kind open up vast prospects for molecular and materials sciences.