Fluorophosphates glasses containing quantum dots (class II-VI): synthesis, characterization, and photoluminescence properties

Abstract

The project focuses on the study, synthesis, and characterization of fluorophosphate glasses containing quantum dots (QDs) of class II-VI, with the high potentiality for photonic and optoelectronic applications in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Two main steps will be taken to carry out the project. First, new fluorophosphate compositions will be explored and investigated in the system NaPO3-ZnO-BaF2-AlF3-MgF2 and characterized by emphasizing their structural and optical properties. The second stage will address the systematic study of in-situ nanocrystallization of QDs (CdS, CdSe and/or CdTe) in fluorophosphate matrices via controlled heat treatment above Tg (nucleation and growth processes), as well as the exploration of their optical and photoluminescent properties containing different types and sizes of QDs. In this context, the project contributes to a recent and promising research field in the area of vitreous materials, by the systematic investigation of oxyfluoride glasses containing quantum dots for photonic applications in the visible region, as emitting materials for solid-state emitters, optical amplifiers, active planar waveguides, and optical sensors.