Colloidal Two-Dimensional Quantum Shells

The development of spherically-layered semiconductor nanoparticles (colloidal quantum wells) is a promising innovation for the future of laser diodes. Traditional devices demonstrate a sharp decline in optical output of semiconductor nanoparticles as lasing power increases, negatively affecting the longevity and efficiency of the device. Colloidal quantum wells address this issue by optimizing the redistribution of incident power, preventing both energy loss and thermal damage. Investigating how to interface colloidal quantum wells with electrodes and how to ensure an efficient light propagation in the laser assembly is paramount to the project. A successful demonstration of laser diodes utilizing these particles will allow for photonic circuits to be produced at lower costs and provide a broad range of accessible colors by tuning the wavelength of emission. These properties allow for high compatibility with a wide variety of substrates and could lead to further breakthroughs in the fields of medical imaging, optical communications, and flexible substrate photonics.