- Letter
Universal and giant second-harmonic generation interference beyond magnetism
Phys. Rev. B 112, L121405 – Published 22 September, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/r723-w8kd
Abstract
Conventional second-harmonic generation (SHG) interference, such as nonlinear magneto-optical effects, typically requires magnetism and strong spin-orbit coupling, limiting its occurrence to rare materials, narrow frequency ranges, and restrictive tunability. Challenging this assumption, we demonstrate through symmetry analysis and first-principles calculations that SHG interference can arise purely from crystal symmetry without magnetism or spin-orbit coupling. We show a stable and giant crystal SHG interference occurs universally in -symmetric nonmagnetic materials within the broad nonresonant regime. The proposed interference mechanism transcends traditional limitations, offering a transformative potential for distinguishing twinned structures, enabling nonlinear optical diode effects, and advancing electric-field-controlled SHG technologies.