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Details of Grant 

EPSRC Reference: GR/R16204/01
Title: The Interaction of Laguerre-Gaussion Laser Beams With Chiral Molecules
Principal Investigator: Andrews, Professor DL
Other Investigators:
Researcher Co-Investigators:
Project Partners:
Department: Chemistry
Organisation: University of East Anglia
Scheme: Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts: 01 January 2001 Ends: 31 December 2003 Value (£): 139,478
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:
Light-Matter Interactions Optical Phenomena
Tissue Engineering
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:
Chemicals Electronics
Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology
Related Grants:
GR/R15269/01
Panel History:  
Summary on Grant Application Form
This project represents one of the first studies of the engagement of molecular chirality with phase-bearing light. It aims to resolve a number of issues which arise in this connection, specifically with regard to nonlinear optical processes, multipolar effects, rotational effects and fundamental symmetry. Work will begin with a general analysis of circular differential scattering and sum-frequency generation by a laser beam possessing orbital angular momentum, with a particular focus on the coupling of Laguerre-Gaussian modes to twisted nematic liquid crystals. Multipolar effects are then to be studied, moving on to an evaluation of the forces and torques exerted by such a laser beam on chiral molecules endowed with static electric and magnetic multipoles. By discovering the principles underlying these and other such effects, the research aims to elicit the significance and possible uses of Laguerre-Gaussian laser beams in application to enantiomerically selective reactions, and to biomolecular motors. Fundamental symmetry aspects are also to be considered, time permitting.
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Organisation Website: http://www.uea.ac.uk