Researchers Synthesize Nanosize Semiconductors in a Plasmonic Nanoantenna

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed an approach to placing nanoscale semiconductors on metallic particles that is precise and cost-effective. Heat is localized on a gold nanoparticle within a butterfly-shaped nanostructure. The heat causes hydrothermal synthesis, which in turn causes semiconducting zinc oxide to crystallize on the gold nanoparticle. The Hokkaido team’s approach could open a new route to making nanosize semiconductors for nanolasing, nanolithography, and other applications. First, the team conducted simulations to determine the optimal conditions for controlling the generation of heat in nanostructures. They used surface plasmon resonance, a process that partially converts light to heat in metallic...