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Probing the photonic density of states using layer-by-layer self-assembly
I Ashry1, B Zhang, S V Stoianov
1The Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, USA.
Optics Letters
|June 5, 2012
Summary
Researchers modified fluorescence dynamics using polymer spacers. This study shows self-assembled fluorophores can probe optical nanostructures by measuring changes in fluorescence lifetime.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Materials Science
- Physical Chemistry
Background:
- Spontaneous emission is crucial in light-matter interactions.
- Optical micro/nanostructures can significantly alter fluorescence dynamics.
- Understanding these modifications is key for photonic device development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the modification of fluorescence dynamics using precisely controlled polymer spacer layers.
- To validate theoretical predictions of modified photonic density of states (PDOS).
- To demonstrate the use of self-assembled fluorophores as probes for optical nanostructures.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of variable thickness polymer spacer layers using layer-by-layer self-assembly.
- Measurement of fluorescence lifetime as a function of spacer layer thickness.
- Comparison of experimental results with theoretical models of modified PDOS.
Main Results:
- Observed changes in fluorescence lifetime correlated well with theoretical predictions.
- Determined consistent intrinsic fluorescence lifetime and quantum yield values.
- Validated the use of self-assembled fluorophores for probing PDOS.
Conclusions:
- Layer-by-layer self-assembly enables nanometer-accurate control over optical properties.
- Modified PDOS near optical interfaces significantly impacts fluorescence dynamics.
- Self-assembled fluorophores are effective tools for characterizing optical nanostructures.
