Hybrid Light Harvesting Antenna Based on Si NWs and RuOs₂ Dendrons for Near IR Light-Emission

Silicon plays a crucial role in modern microelectronics and telecommunications. Recent advancements in nanotechnology have expanded its applications, particularly in photonics. Quantum confinement effects in silicon nanostructures, such as nanocrystals and nanowires (Si NWs), enable light emission in the visible-to-near-infrared (IR) spectrum at room temperature. Among these, Si NWs are particularly promising as they are compatible with existing microelectronic fabrication processes. Given the importance of near-IR light sources for telecommunications, research has focused on enhancing the silicon-based emission in this spectral range. This study presents the development of a hybrid light-harvesting antenna composed of quantum-confined Si NWs and Ru-(II)/Os-(II)-based dendrons. By leveraging energy transfer processes, these hybrid systems achieve near-IR emission at ∼920 nm with a remarkable 99.5% efficiency, as confirmed by lifetime measurements. The dye was anchored to the Si NWs via a carboxyl-functionalized bipyridine ligand, enhancing the stability of these hybrid systems. The demonstrated Si NWs/RuOs₂ hybrid antenna offers significant advantages, including high energy transfer efficiency, stability, and compatibility with cost-effective silicon technology making these structures promising candidate for photonic applications.