Ion synthesis of ZnO photonic nanocrystals

Semiconductor nanocrystals which exhibit the effects of three dimensional quantum confinement hold significant potential for applications ranging from waveguides and high-speed optical switches to infrared sensors. Realization of such devices rests in part on the successful synthesis of these nanocrystals. We are currently using ion implantation to create ZnO photonic nanocrystals in silica by the subsequent implantation of Zn and O species. Photoluminescence spectroscopy and absorption measurements are being used to aid in the synthesis developement. This work is part of a more comprehensive on-going study on the coupled effects of strain and quantum confinement on the luminescence of photonic nanocrystals. Further information on this project, fundend by the Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies (CINT) can be found here.

Funding provided by:

CINT

Collaborators:

M. Nastasi and J. -K. Lee, Los Alamos National Laboratory

Relevant publication:

Lee, J. -K., Tewell, C., Schulze, R. K., Nastasi, M, Hamby, D. W., Lucca, D. A., Jung, H. S. and Hong, K. S., "Synthesis of ZnO Nanocrystals by Subsequent Implantation of Zn and O Species", Applied Physics Letters, 86 (2005) 183111.