Obiettivo
The present project aims at a multi-disciplinary approach of the recently discovered optical polarization anisotropy properties associated with the reduction of symmetry at semiconductor interfaces. It brings together theoreticians belonging to the k.p (or envelope function) theory and ab-initio calculation communities, experimentalists having established expertise in different spectroscopic techniques, and material physicists growing a variety of quantum well and quantum dot heterostructures. The material of interest are heterostructures based on III-V and II-VI semiconductors and presenting some inversion asymmetry with respect to the growth axis, with special attention to the systems where the host materials have unlike cations and anions, or "no-common atom" systems. In the latter case, interface asymmetry is primarily due to the existence of specific interface bonds that do not exist in the host materials. Conversely, in Common-Anion quantum wells, the asymmetry can come from the compositional profile or from the application of an external electric field.
The project aims at:
i) fundamental understanding of the physical parameters governing the mixing of light and heavy valence bands at interfaces;
ii) sorting out intrinsic and extrinsic contributions to optical anisotropy in asymmetric quantum wells or in self-assembled quantum dots;
iii) using polarization resolved optical spectroscopy as a new tool for the characterization of semiconductor interfaces;
iv) evaluating the potential of these anisotropy properties for opto-electronic device applications and the potential of NCA quantum wells as materials for non-linear optics, and v) establishing an homogeneous theoretical formalism taking into account the three contributions (Bulk, Structure and Interfaces) to inversion asymmetry in quantum well structures.
The consortium consists of 7 knowledgeable teams (three from NIS and 4 from INTAS member states) having established skill in both theoretical and experimental fields. In particular, the scientific equipment necessary to the experimental part of the project, and the samples, are available within the consortium or through established collaborations. It is expected that strong scientific interaction will develop between the partners, through visits, exchange of information, and collaboration on specific issues.
Given the importance and actuality of the interface symmetry reduction effect, it is anticipated that the project will give rise to the publication of a number of original journal and conference papers and will contribute to significant progress in semiconductor science.
Invito a presentare proposte
Data not availableMeccanismo di finanziamento
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75005 Paris
Francia