Dynamics of Molecular Excitons

1. Introduction
   2. Exciton Hamiltonian
   3. Incoherent rate theories of exciton dynamics
   4. Computational approaches for coherent exciton dynamics
   5. Theories for spectroscopic measurement of exciton dynamics
   6. Applications

Dynamics of Molecular Excitons provide a comprehensive but concise description of major theories on the dynamics of molecular excitons, and is intended to serve as a self-contained resource on the topic. It is designed to help those new to this area gain proficiency in this field and experts develop deeper understanding of the subject.

The starting point of the book is the standard microscopic definition of molecular Hamiltonians presented in commonly accepted modern quantum mechanical notations. Major assumptions and approximations involved in constructing Frenkel-type exciton Hamiltonians, which are well established but are often hidden under arcane notations and approximations of old publications, are presented in detail. This help quantum chemists understand the major assumptions involved in the definition of commonly used exciton models.

Rate theories of exciton dynamics such as Förster and Dexter theories and their modern generalizations are presented in a unified and detailed manner. In addition, important aspects that are often neglected such as local field effect and the role of fluctuating environment are discussed. Various quantum dynamics methods allowing coherent dynamics of excitons are presented in a systematic manner in the context of quantum master equation or path integral formalisms. Detailed theoretical account is also provided for the major spectroscopic techniques probing exciton dynamics, including modern two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy. The implications of these spectroscopic measurements are assessed critically. Finally, a brief overview of major applications including organic photovoltaic materials and natural light harvesting complexes are explained.

• Covers major theories of exciton dynamics in a consciously concise and easily readable way
• Bridges the gap between quantum dynamics working with phenomenological exciton Hamiltonian and quantum chemistry construct reliable models amenable for dynamics calculations from ab initio calculations
• Explores in depth the modern nonlinear electronic spectroscopy techniques to probe exciton dynamics, and shows how it is applied

Materials scientists, engineers and physics scientists working in the areas of spectroscopy, exciton and photonics