Coherent laser control of current via molecular nano-junctions with semiconductor and graphene contacts

Abstract

We propose new approaches to coherent control of transport via molecular junctions. The first method is based on the application of intrinsic semiconductor contacts and optical frequencies below the semiconductor bandgap. Our analytical theory predicts a new phenomenon, referred to as coherent destruction of induced tunnelling, which extends the phenomenon of coherent destruction of tunnelling frequently discussed in the previous literature. We also propose to use graphene electrodes as a platform for effective photon assisted tunneling through molecular conduction nanojunctions. Our results illustrate the potential of semiconductor and graphene contacts in coherent control of photocurrent.