Optical properties of an ordered array of silica nanospheres embedded with silicon nanoclusters

The optical properties of Si nanoclusters embedded within an ordered array of silica spheres have been measured. Raman data were used to confirm the existence of the Si nanoclusters. Reflection measurements and a large photoluminescence signal demonstrated the effect of the periodic structure on the optical characteristics. The wavelength-dependent, photoluminescence decay time was in the range of 7 to 24 mus for lambda = 650 to lambda = 850 nn, respectively, implying contributions from surface or interface states. (C) 2000 Optical Society of America [S0740-3224(00)01612-X] OCIS codes: 020.4180, 050.1940, 060.5060, 130.0250, 130.4310, 240.5860.