ERA NanoSci - Electrically-Excited Surface Plasmon Nanosources Based on Carbon Nanotube Light Emission

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Achim Hartschuh
• Subject Area: Theoretical Chemistry: Electronic Structure, Dynamics, Simulation
• Term: from 2009 to 2013
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 118701971

Carbon nanotube opto-electronics and plasmonics exploit novel fascinating physical phenomena and are among the most promising research areas for nanotechnology providing functional nano-objects for data transfer and processing at ultimate device densities. We propose interfacing these two technologies to create the first efficient electricallydriven multiplexing surface plasmon source. In the first two steps, we explore the laws governing the near-field coupling between nanotubes and plasmon-guiding metallic nanostructures. Utilizing high-resolution optical microscopy we probe the electrical fields along single nanotube / metal waveguides visualizing both localized and propagating excitations. Finally, we use an electroluminescent nanotube to launch surface plasmons on demand in addressable waveguides. Our team is formed by peers in the field of plasmonics, near-field microscopy and carbon nanotube technology providing the expertise required to addressing this challenging project.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: France, Italy
• Participating Persons: Dr. Maria Allegrini; Dr. Alexandre Bouhelier