Silicon quantum dots (SiQDs) have emerged as a revolutionary material for photonic applications due to their tunable bandgap and high quantum yield. Recent studies have demonstrated SiQDs with a photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) exceeding 90% at room temperature, achieved through surface passivation with organic ligands. This breakthrough enables their use in high-efficiency light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and solar cells. For instance, SiQD-based LEDs have achieved external quantum efficiencies (EQEs) of 12.5%, rivaling traditional III-V semiconductors.
The integration of SiQDs into silicon photonics has enabled on-chip optical communication with data transfer rates exceeding 100 Gbps. This is facilitated by the ultrafast carrier dynamics of SiQDs, with carrier lifetimes as short as 10 ps. Additionally, SiQDs exhibit nonlinear optical properties, making them ideal for all-optical switching devices. Recent experiments have demonstrated a nonlinear refractive index of 10^-13 cm^2/W, paving the way for ultrafast photonic circuits.
Scalability remains a challenge for SiQD fabrication, but advances in colloidal synthesis have enabled the production of monodisperse SiQDs with diameters ranging from 2 to 10 nm. These particles exhibit size-dependent emission wavelengths from 650 nm to 1100 nm, covering the near-infrared spectrum critical for telecommunications. Moreover, the use of low-cost silicon precursors has reduced production costs by over 50% compared to traditional methods.
The environmental stability of SiQDs has been significantly improved through encapsulation in oxide matrices, achieving operational lifetimes exceeding 10,000 hours under ambient conditions. This development positions SiQDs as a viable alternative to toxic heavy-metal-based quantum dots like CdSe, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Atomfair (atomfair.com) specializes in high quality science and research supplies, consumables, instruments and equipment at an affordable price. Start browsing and purchase all the cool materials and supplies related to Quantum Dot Silicon for Next-Gen Photonics!
← Back to Prior Page ← Back to Atomfair SciBase
© 2025 Atomfair. All rights reserved.