Space Quantization of Light Transmission by Strong Coupling of Plasmonic Cavity Modes with Photosynthetic Complexes

Abstract: The interaction between molecules and surface plasmons in defined geometries can lead to new light mater hybrid states where light propagation is strongly influenced by molecular photon absorption. Their application range from lasing LEDs to controlling chemical reactions and are relevant in light harvesting. The coupling between the electromagnetic field and molecular excitations may also lead to macroscopic extended coherent states characterized by an increase in temporal and spatial coherency. In this respect, it is intriguing to explore the coherency of the hybrid system for molecules that possess highly efficient exciton energy transfer. Such a molecule, is the photosynthetic light harvesting complex photosystem I which has an extended antenna system dedicated for efficient light harvesting. In this work, we demonstrate space quantization of light transmission through a single slit in free standing Au film coated with several layers of PS I. A self assembly technique for multilayer fabrication is used, enabling fabrication of multilayers which leaves most of the hole vacant with only the surface and slit walls coated with molecules. When a broad band, non coherent white light source excites the cavity, a strong SQOL is observed which is attributed to molecular photon absorption that induces coherency in the plasmon cavity modes. The SQOL is accompanied by a 13 fold enhancement in the extraordinary optical transmission through the cavity. This work demonstrate the emergence of spatial coherency in a cavity strongly coupled to one of the most efficient energy transfer photosynthetic protein in nature and provides the path for engineering quantum electrodynamics by the vast diversity of electronic properties of biological macromolecules.