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Photoluminescence

Photoluminescence( PL)

Introduction :

Photoluminescence (PL) Spectroscopy is a powerful, non-destructive optical technique used to investigate the electronic and optical properties of materials. At Photon Center, we provide high-precision PL analysis for a wide range of materials, including semiconductors, nanomaterials, quantum dots, and thin films.

Photoluminescence is a spectroscopic technique that relies on the emission of light from a material after it absorbs electromagnetic radiation, typically in the ultraviolet or visible light range. This technique is widely used to study the optical and electronic properties of materials.

PL is a powerful tool used in physics to study the optical and electronic properties of materials. It provides valuable information about dynamics and interactions at the molecular level, contributing to research and applications in various fields such as nanomaterials, electronics, and biology. By understanding the principle of light emission and utilizing PL, physicists can enhance their knowledge and develop new technologies.

Physical Principle of PL:

  • Energy Absorption : When photons of light are incident on a material, the electrons in the material absorb this energy and are excited to higher energy levels (excited states).

  • Relaxation Period : After a short time, these electrons return to lower energy states. During this process, different events can occur, such as:

  • Non-radiative Relaxation: Where energy is lost as heat.

  • Radiative Relaxation: Where the remaining energy is released as photons, resulting in light emission.

  • Emission Spectrum: The spectrum resulting from PL is measured, providing information about energy levels, chemical composition, and material properties.

Applications of PL in Physics:

  1. Study of Nanomaterials :

    PL is used to study nanomaterials such as quantum dots, providing information about their size, shape, and optical properties. These properties can influence applications in fields like optoelectronics and solar cells.

  2. Band Gap and Defect States:

    PL can accurately determine the optical band gap and reveal the presence of defects, trap states, and impurities in a material’s electronic structure.

  3. Material Purity and Crystallinity

    Sharp, well-defined emission peaks often indicate high crystallinity and fewer non-radiative defects.

    PL is employed to analyze different crystals, such as semiconducting crystals. It can reveal defects and distortions in the crystal structure, aiding in improving manufacturing processes.

  4. Development of Semiconductor Materials :

    PL is utilized in the evaluation of semiconductor materials like silicon and germanium by studying their energy levels. This information helps enhance the performance of electronic devices.

  5. Quantum Efficiency & Emission Intensity

    Useful for evaluating materials used in LEDs, laser diodes, and photonics.

  6. Recombination Mechanisms

    Helps distinguish between radiative and non-radiative recombination pathways, which is essential in optoelectronic and photovoltaic research.

PL Services at Photon Center:

  • Steady-State PL Spectroscopy

  • Continuous excitation to measure emission spectra, suitable for most material.

  • Excitation Wavelength Control

    Custom selection of excitation sources (e.g., 325 nm, 405 nm, 532 nm, etc.) for optimized material response.

  • Emission Range: UV to NIR (200–1700 nm)

    We offer broad spectral detection for visible, deep-UV, and near-infrared photoluminescence.

  • Room Temperature & Low-Temperature PL (on request)

    Low-temperature PL (e.g., 77 K) provides sharper spectral features and better resolution of defect states.

  • Thin Films, Powders, and Nanostructures Supported

    Measurements available for a variety of sample formats including solid-state films, colloidal QDs, and bulk materials.

Applications:

  1. Characterization of semiconductors and insulators

  2. Quality control in perovskites, quantum dots, and 2D materials

  3. Evaluation of photocatalysts, sensors, and emissive materials

  4. Detection of surface or interface defects in layered materials

 

With PL spectroscopy at Photon Center, you gain deep insight into the electronic transitions and luminescent behavior of your materials—essential for research and device optimization