Second-order nonlinear optical properties of chiral thin films

This paper reviews work on the second-order nonlinear optical properties of chiral thin films and surfaces. In particular, we give an overview of the theoretical formalism and experimental procedures that have been used to describe second-harmonic generation from chiral surfaces or thin films. In addition, we discuss a series of experimental results which include second-harmonic generation studies from surfaces and thin films composed of chiral synthetic and biological molecules. When appropriate, we point out possible applications or suggest directions for further research.