Quantum dot artificial solids: Understanding the static and dynamic role of size and packing disorder

K. C. Beverly, J. L. Sample, J. F. Sampaio, F. Remacle, J. R. Heath, R. D. Levine*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

48 Scopus citations

Abstract

This perspective examines quantum dot (QD) superlattices as model systems for achieving a general understanding of the electronic structure of solids and devices built from nanoscale components. QD arrays are artificial two-dimensional solids, with novel optical and electric properties, which can be experimentally tuned. The control of the properties is primarily by means of the selection of the composition and size of the individual QDs and secondly, through their packing. The freedom of the architectural design is constrained by nature insisting on diversity. Even the best synthesis and separation methods do not yield dots of exactly the same size nor is the packing in the self-assembled array perfectly regular. A series of experiments, using both spectroscopic and electrical probes, has characterized the effects of disorder for arrays of metallic dots. We review these results and the corresponding theory. In particular, we discuss temperature-dependent transport experiments as the next step in the characterization of these arrays.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)6456-6459
Number of pages4
JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
Volume99
Issue numberSUPPL. 2
DOIs
StatePublished - 30 Apr 2002

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