Infrared absorption and emission in conducting polymer/GaSb nanocomposites

Nanocomposites consisting of GaSb nanoparticles in conducting polymer matrices (MEH-PPV) were fabricated and investigated. The nanocrystal-bearing sample, in contrast with the film polymer samples, exhibits an inductive effect attributable to minority-carrier injection and capture into the nanocrystals. Electroluminescence with a spectral maximum around 1600 nm wavelength was obtained for both signs of applied bias. The EL spectra show evidence of modest size quantization. The results suggest prospects for GaSb/polymer nanocomposites as a basis for infrared light-emitting devices for optical communications in the local area network.