Enhanced phonon lifetimes with optically controlled single molecules

Abstract

We have investigated the phonon dynamics of a single molecule embedded in a mechanical resonator made of an organic crystal. The whole system is placed in an optical resonator within the bad cavity limit. We have found that the optical control of the molecular population affects the phonon dynamics. Long-lived phonons are obtained when slowing down the decay dynamics of the molecule via modulation of the transition frequency. The discussed results are also valid for optomechanical setups based on other types of two-level emitters and mechanical resonators.