Solid-state electroluminescence from porous silicon

In this paper we describe briefly, the historical development of porous silicon electroluminescent (PSEL) devices. Some optical and electrical characteristics of the most efficient CW operated PSEL device reported to date are presented. In order for PSEL devices to realise their promised potential, several key problems remain to be solved. These problems are discussed, and the prospects for overcoming them are considered. To appreciate better this work, some background information on the fabrication and the structural and optical properties of porous silicon is also presented