Photoluminescence Properties of Nanocrystals

Abstract

Photoluminescence (PL) is an optical phenomenon exhibited by some semiconductor materials when excited by an electromagnetic radiation source. After the excitation and recombination processes, these kinds of materials are able to emit photons with less energy than those employed during the electronic excitation. Initially, the researches on the PL properties focused on crystalline materials under cryogenic conditions. However, from the technological viewpoint, the discovery of new materials with visible PL emissions at room temperature has become more interesting for the improvement or development of electrooptic devices. Currently, functional and practical applications of this physical phenomenon in our daily life can be found in light-emitting diodes, lasers, lamps, sensors, scintillators, electronic displays, and so on. In this special issue, the reader will find 10 selected papers briefly summarized below.