Published online by Cambridge University Press: 26 February 2011
Spatially quantized systems of III–V compounds have, in recent years, attracted considerable theoretical interest. However, the fabrication of quantum dots, a three-dimensionally quantum-confined microstructure, is particularly cumbersome and requires sophisticated lateral patterning techniques. A method, reported recently, which utilizes the microporosity of Vycor brand porous glass to produce quantum-confined microcrystals of II–VI and IV–VI semiconductors, is now extended to the fabrication of III–V quantum dots, by incorporating a microwave plasma assisted MOCVD technique. In this process, organometallic precursors impregnated in porous glass can be effectively cracked to deposit III–V microcrystals in glass. The results are discussed in light of the quantum size effect manifested by the optical absorption and photoluminescence data.