Subdiffraction photon guidance by quantum-dot cascades

Nano Lett. 2006 Nov;6(11):2549-53. doi: 10.1021/nl061958g.

Abstract

We report on a waveguide composed of a cascade of gain-enabled quantum dots with subwavelength dimensions. Fabrication is demonstrated through DNA-mediated self-assembly and a two-layer molecular self-assembly process that enables rapid prototyping. The device, which is identified with fluorescence microscopy and tested by optical near field detection, allows optical signal transfer at a well-defined wavelength in flexible routing geometry, such as straight paths and 90 degrees bends. The structure serves as a critical building block for nanophotonic systems with high integration density.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adsorption
  • Colloids / chemistry
  • Crystallization
  • DNA / chemistry
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence / methods
  • Nanotechnology / methods*
  • Optics and Photonics
  • Oxygen / chemistry
  • Photons*
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate / chemistry
  • Quantum Dots*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Colloids
  • DNA
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate
  • Oxygen