Photoluminescence line-shape analysis in quantum wells embedded in superlattices

The temperature evolution of the main photoluminescence (PL) mechanisms, in GaAs quantum wells embedded in short-period AlAs/GaAs superlattices, is investigated. PL spectra are measured from 2 to 300 K. A detailed line-shape analysis of the PL peaks is performed by means of a statistical model, including both free exciton and free carrier recombination. The fits based on this model reproduce satisfactorily the experimental PL line shapes and allow to assess quantitatively the relative contributions of free excitons and free carriers to the radiative recombination at different temperatures. The results indicate the predominant role of free excitons in the radiative recombination up to room temperature, and are consistent with the mass action law.