Size-Dependence of the Wavefunction of Self-Assembled Quantum Dots

TL;DR

This study investigates how the size of self-assembled InAs quantum dots influences their electron-hole wavefunction overlap, affecting their optical properties and efficiency, with implications for quantum emitter applications.

Contribution

It provides experimental measurements and a theoretical model linking quantum dot size to wavefunction overlap and optical quality, highlighting optimal sizes for quantum applications.

Findings

Wavefunction overlap varies significantly with quantum dot size

Larger quantum dots exhibit higher optical quality

Optimum quantum dot size enhances emitter performance

Abstract

The radiative and non-radiative decay rates of InAs quantum dots are measured by controlling the local density of optical states near an interface. From time-resolved measurements we extract the oscillator strength and the quantum efficiency and their dependence on emission energy. From our results and a theoretical model we determine the striking dependence of the overlap of the electron and hole wavefunctions on the quantum dot size. We conclude that the optical quality is best for large quantum dots, which is important in order to optimally tailor quantum dot emitters for, e.g., quantum electrodynamics experiments.