Higher-Order Harmonic Generation from Fullerene by Means of the Plasma Harmonic Method

We demonstrate, for the first time, high-order harmonic generation from C(60) by an intense femtosecond Ti:sapphire laser. Laser-produced plasmas from C(60)-rich epoxy and C(60) films were used as the nonlinear media. Harmonics up to the 19th order were observed. The harmonic yield from fullerene-rich plasma is about 25 times larger compared with those produced from a bulk carbon target. Structural studies of plasma debris confirm the presence and integrity of fullerenes within the plasma plume, indicating fullerenes as the source of high-order harmonics.