Polarized photoluminescence clocks ultrafast pseudospin relaxation in graphene

Abstract

Electronic states in 2D materials can exhibit pseudospin degrees of freedom, which allow for unique carrier-field interaction scenarios. Here, we investigate ultrafast sublattice pseudospin relaxation in graphene by means of polarization-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy. Comparison with microscopic Boltzmann simulations allows to determine a lifetime of the optically aligned pseudospin distribution of $12\pm 2\text{fs}$. This experimental approach extends the toolbox of graphene pseudospintronics, providing novel means to investigate pseudospin dynamics in active devices or under external fields.