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Tunable mid IR plasmon in GZO nanocrystals
M K Hamza1, J-M Bluet, K Masenelli-Varlot
1Institut des Nanotechnologies de Lyon, INSA-Lyon, UMR CNRS 5270, Université de Lyon, 7 avenue Jean Capelle, 69621 Villeurbanne Cedex, France. bruno.masenelli@insa-lyon.fr.
Nanoscale
|June 27, 2015
Summary
Gallium-doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocrystals enable tunable mid-infrared (IR) plasmonics. Their plasmon resonance damping originates from particle self-organization and dopant inhomogeneity.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Plasmonics
Background:
- Degenerate metal oxide nanoparticles offer a pathway to extend plasmonics into the infrared (IR) spectrum.
- Gallium-doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocrystals are suitable for mid-IR applications due to tunable doping levels and plasmon properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and demonstrate tunable mid-IR plasmon resonance in degenerate Ga-doped ZnO nanocrystals.
- To explore the origins of plasmon resonance damping in these nanocrystal systems.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of Ga-doped ZnO nanocrystals via plasma expansion, resulting in unprotected surfaces.
- Tuning of localized surface plasmon resonance by adjusting Gallium concentration.
- Comparative analysis of plasmon resonance in nanocrystal assemblies versus nanoparticles dispersed in an alumina matrix.
Main Results:
- Achieved tunable mid-IR plasmon resonance in Ga-doped ZnO nanocrystals.
- Observed significant damping of the plasmon resonance.
- Identified particle self-organization and intrinsic dopant inhomogeneity as contributing factors to damping.
Conclusions:
- Degenerate Ga-doped ZnO nanocrystals are effective for tunable mid-IR plasmonics.
- Particle self-organization and dopant inhomogeneity significantly contribute to plasmon damping.
- Further research can focus on mitigating damping for enhanced performance.
