Relationship between third-order nonlinear optical properties and magnetic interactions in open-shell systems: a new paradigm for nonlinear optics.

Although most third-order nonlinear optical (NLO) materials are closed-shell singlet systems, this Letter theoretically shows that the third-order NLO properties are drastically enhanced in symmetric open-shell diradical systems with intermediate diradical character and further reveals that this enhancement is associated with the ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic interactions. This new paradigm opens up a promising area for designing new third-order NLO materials.