Nanowires - From Basic Materials Research to Real-World Applications

Explore the fascinating world of semiconductor nanowires in this 56-minute lecture presented by Lars Samuelson of Lund University at the 2014 MRS Fall Meeting. Delve into the unique materials, electronic, and optical properties of these needle-like nanostructures and their promising applications in optoelectronics, energy systems, and life sciences. Trace the evolution of nanowire research from the late 1990s, examining fundamental studies on materials growth and physics, as well as innovative fabrication methods combining top-down patterning with bottom-up self-assembly. Discover the potential of nanowires in enabling high-speed optoelectronic devices through monolithic integration with silicon, and learn about their applications in energy scavenging and conservation. Gain insights into the broader materials research considerations, current state of the art, key challenges, and exciting opportunities for nanowires in developing next-generation, high-performance optoelectronic devices such as solar cells and light-emitting diodes, with a focus on low-cost production and reduced materials consumption.