Formation of nanocrystals (or nanocrystals with core/shell structure) and applications for photonics, floating gate and magnetic memory

Solid state materials containing nanocrystals of a second phase can exhibit novel optical, electrical and magnetic properties that have direct technological application. However, the functionality of these important materials is often compromised by the low density and wide size-dispersion of the nanocrystalline phase. This project will exploit the unique properties of pulsed laser ablation to address these limitations. The proposed technique represents a breakthrough that opens the door to creating new materials for super-dense data storage, solid-state lighting and advanced detection systems.