Beyond Fowler-Nordheim model: Harmonic generation from metallic nano-structures

Abstract

Metallic structures interacting with electromagnetic fields are known to exhibit properties similar to those found in atoms and molecules, such as multi-photon and tunnel ionization. Developing this similarity beyond the electron emission current, we generalize the wellknown Fowler-Nordheim model, and predict heretofore unrecognized source of nonlinear optical response from nano-structures exposed to illumination with intense optical pulses.