Raman scattering using vortex light

•We model the interaction between lattice vibration and light with orbital angular momentum (OAM).•Raman scattering selection rules show activation of silent phonon mode due to non-zero OAM.•Calculation shows that the intensity of Raman scattering using light with OAM is comparable with that using ordinary light.•We suggest systems for experimental realization.

We re-examine the theory of Raman scattering in cubic crystals. The unconventional vector potential of vortex light leads to new selection rules. We show that in this novel optical process, (a) silent phonon modes become active and (b) scattering tensors change for ordinary Raman active phonon modes. Calculation based on a simplified model shows that the vortex Raman scattering intensity can be comparable with that of ordinary Raman process.