Electroluminescence from new silicon systems

Recent experimental electroluminescence obtained from porous Si and spark-processed Si shows promising visible intensity and the possibility of durability. The theoretical considerations that determine the intensity of radiation from nano-particle Si are described. These include the probabilities of radiative and competing non-radiative processes. It is concluded that there are no fundamental reasons why visible, adequately intense and durable electroluminescence cannot be achieved from Si, for integration with Si-based circuit technology.