Nonlinear optomechanical detection for Majorana fermions via a hybrid nanomechanical system

Abstract

The pursuit for detecting the existence of Majorana fermions is a challenging task in condensed matter physics at present. In this work, we theoretically propose a novel nonlinear optical method for probing Majorana fermions in the hybrid semiconductor/superconductor heterostructure. Our proposal is based on a hybrid system constituted by a quantum dot embedded in a nanomechanical resonator. With this method, the nonlinear optical Kerr effect presents a distinct signature for the existence of Majorana fermions. Further, the vibration of the nanomechanical resonator will enhance the nonlinear optical effect, which makes the Majorana fermions more sensitive to be detected. This proposed method may provide a potential supplement for the detection of Majorana fermions. © 2014 Chen and Zhu.