These studies are being pursued vigorously in order to develop improved materials in support of Division growth and exploratory device development programs, and to advance understanding of the physical properties of these systems. The full complement of Branch optical, structural transport and theoretical capabilities are employed in this effort. Semiconductors A broad range of theoretical work is being done on semiconductors and their structures. Emphasis is on issues of importance in the experimental and development programs in the Branch and the Division which include the properties of defects, interfaces and nanostructures. In addition, novel materials and structures and advanced device concepts which have potential for impact on these programs are investigated.
Work often is done in conjunction with experiment.
Both optical and transport properties as well as growth processes are studied. Techniques used range from ab initio electronic calculations and many-body approaches to the modeling of prototype devices. Subjects of current research include semiconductor quantum wells and superlattices, the optical properties of quantum wires and quantum dots , the photonic properties of microcavities and thermoelectric transport in superlattices.