Electric field-assisted Ag+ migration for PbS quantum dot formation in glasses

Electric-field assisted solid-state diffusion of Ag+ was used to control precipitation of PbS quantum dots (QDs) inside glasses. Precipitation of PbS QDs was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy images and photoluminescence (PL) spectra. PL bands moved to longer wavelengths as applied voltage increased under the same subsequent heat-treatment, and as heat-treatment temperature increased under the same voltage. PbS QDs can preferentially precipitate at low temperature and photo-luminesce at longer wavelengths in Ag+-affected regions than in unaffected regions. Ag nanoparticles were also formed inside affected regions after thermal treatment, and provided nucleation sites for PbS QDs. Precipitation of PbS QDs and their spatial distribution in glasses can be controlled by electric field-assisted Ag+ migration.