Trapping-influenced photoluminescence intensity decay in semiconductor nanoplatelets

We present a diffusion-based simulation model for explanation of long time power-law decay of photoluminescence (PL) emission intensity in semiconductor nanoplatelets. In our model the shape of emission curves is an outcome of interplay of recombination, diffusion and trapping of excitons. At short times the excitons diffuse freely following the normal diffusion behaviour. The emission decay is purely exponential and is defined by recombination. At long times the transition into the subdiffusive motion happens and the emission occurs due to the release of excitons from surface traps. A power-law tail for intensity is a consequence of the release. The crossover from onelimit to another is controlled by diffusion properties. The approach reproduces the properties of experimental curves measured for different nanoplatelet systems.

Exciton-Photon Interactions in Semiconductor Nanocrystals: Radiative Transitions, Non-Radiative Processes and Environment Effects

In this review, we discuss several fundamental processes taking place in semiconductor nanocrystals (quantum dots (QDs)) when their electron subsystem interacts with electromagnetic (EM) radiation. The physical phenomena of light emission and EM energy transfer from a QD exciton to other electronic systems such as neighbouring nanocrystals and polarisable 3D (semi-infinite dielectric or metal) and 2D (graphene) materials are considered. In particular, emission decay and FRET rates near a plane interface between two dielectrics or a dielectric and a metal are discussed and their dependence upon relevant parameters is demonstrated. The cases of direct (II–VI) and indirect (silicon) band gap semiconductors are compared. We cover the relevant non-radiative mechanisms such as the Auger process, electron capture on dangling bonds and interaction with phonons. Some further effects, such as multiple exciton generation, are also discussed. The emphasis is on explaining the underlying physics and illustrating it with calculated and experimental results in a comprehensive, tutorial manner.

Possibility for inhibited spontaneous emission in electromagnetically open parity–time-symmetric guiding structures

Remote sensing and manipulation of quantum emitters are functionalities of significant practical importance in quantum optics. Unfortunately, these abilities are considered as fundamentally challenging in systems of inhibited spontaneous emission. The reason is intimately related to the common perception that, in order to nullify the spontaneous emission decay rate, the system has to be electromagnetically closed, meaning that all loss channels should be avoided, including radiation. However, since radiation is prohibited in these systems, far-field sensing and by reciprocity, also far-field manipulation are considered impossible. Here, we suggest a possible solution to this challenge and theoretically propose an electromagnetically open system that may exhibit a complete inhibition of spontaneous emission while supporting guiding waves. This peculiar functionality is achieved through a feedback wave mechanism that is found in parity–time-symmetric structure. The analysis is based on an exact Green’s function derivation as well as full wave simulations involving a realistic design for the sake of future experimental validation.

Improved charge carrier dynamics of WS2 nanostructures by the way of CdS@WS2 heterostructures for use in water splitting and water purification

Long emission decay life time and significantly quenched fluorescence emission of tungsten disulfide (WS2)/cadmium sulfide (CdS) heterostructures aid in enhancing photoelectrochemical water splitting and water purification properties.

Synthesis, micellar structures and emission mechanisms of an AIE and DDED-featured fluorescent pH- and thermo-meter

A nanoprobe in water features pH- and thermal-responsive micellar/clustering structures, deprotonation-driven emission decay (DDED) and aggregation-induced emission (AIE).