Influence of Geometric Dimensionality on Quantum Confinement: Semiconductor Quantum Wires, Rods, and Shells

Washington University, Saint Louis MO

Investigators

Abstract

Prof. William E. Buhro, of the Washington University in St. Louis Chemistry Department, is supported by the Division of Chemistry for his research on the effect of the dimensionality (shape) on quantum confinement in quantum wires, rods, and shells, with an emphasis on the study of quantum wires. The development of solution-based techniques for controlling the sizes and shapes of desired materials will facilitate subsequent physical (optical and electronic) characterizations to elucidate the electronic structures and spectroscopic properties of a variety of materials. Shape-controlled nanoscale materials have anticipated applications in nanoelectronics, orientation-sensitive fluorescent labeling, lasing, and light-harvesting cells. Achieving the promise of nanomaterials requires the development of synthetic approaches including solution-based syntheses that yield materials with tailored sizes and shapes. To understand the consequences of the dimensionality (shape) effect on quantum confinement, spectroscopic and physical-properties studies on quantum wires, rods, and shells of various materials will be carried out. The combination of controlled solution-based nanoscale synthesis with physical characterization and spectroscopy will give undergraduates, graduate students, and postdocs a unique training experience in a forefront inorganic materials chemistry program.