CRC 1242: ‘Non-Equilibrium Dynamics of Condensed Matter in the Time Domain’

Researchers in the Collaborative Research Centre 1242 ‘Non-Equilibrium Dynamics of Condensed Matter in the Time Domain’ seek to gain a microscopic understanding of dynamic processes in condensed matter.

Their studies focus on dynamics far beyond the thermodynamic equilibrium created by very brief, external stimuli. Carried out exclusively in the temporal domain, their work closely combines experimental and theoretical methods.

During the first funding period (2016–2020), the researchers developed suitable research methods and analysed and described the dynamics within individual degrees of freedom, such as oscillation of the atomic core and electrical charge.

The ongoing second funding period (2020–2024) builds on the results achieved in the years before. It focuses on manipulating the dynamics processes in non-equilibrium. This approach serves two purposes: to expand current understanding of the phenomena involved and to trial adjustments of the time periods available for potential ultra-fast applications.