MRSEC Seminar

Semiconducting carbon nanotubes in
nano-optoelectronics

Mathias Steiner
IBM Research Division

The optical and electronic properties of semiconducting single wall carbon nanotubes (CNTs), quasi one-dimensional systems with a band gap that depends on their diameter, have inspired numerous demonstrations as novel electrical switches, light sources and light detectors. However, the presence of dielectrics, defects, electrostatic doping and current heating can significantly modify the performance of CNT-based optoelectronic devices. By combining electrical measurements and optical micro-spectroscopy, it is possible to study the different physical interactions that occur simultaneously in an operating CNT device.

In this talk, I will discuss the dominating optical effects that can be observed in operating CNT transistors and some of the actual performance limits for electrical transport and the emission and detection of light. Also, I will report on novel approaches for reducing heterogeneities and increasing efficiencies of optoelectronic devices made of CNTs.

Thursday, February 11, 2010
4:00  ~ Ryan 4003