THE SCHOOL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Under the provisions of the regulations for the degree

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY

on Wednesday, April 18, 2018

2:00 PM
in MoSE 4100F

will be held the

DISSERTATION PROPOSAL DEFENSE

for

Marcus J. Smith

"Manipulating Photoluminescent Properties Via Guided Assembly and Control of Optically Active Media Within Polymer Matrices"

Committee Members:

Prof. Vladimir Tsukruk, Advisor, MSE

Prof. Zhiquin Lin, MSE

Prof. Wenshan Cai, ECE/MSE

Prof. Dong Qin, MSE

Dr. Timothy Bunning, Air Force Research Labs

Abstract:

Intriguing optical phenomenon such as directional light modulation and lasing with low thresholds can be achieved with photonic assemblies of gain medium. This study focuses on understanding the fundamental aspect of light-matter interactions in gain medium such as quantum dots (QD) and QD-polymer nanocomposites.  Specific emphasis will be placed on understanding the QD-polymer interface to realize ideal assembly in nanocomposites and on illustrating the parameters governing optical coupling between nanocomposite assemblies with particular focus on photonic cavity size, shape, position, and obtaining dynamic tunability.

The focus of this research will be on individual properties and the coupling behavior of QD nanocomposite structures. First, we will demonstrate control of the interaction between polymer matrices and quantum dots to form nanocomposite systems. The nanocomposite system will be used to fabricate unique photonic assemblies using top-down approaches and guided assembly. Finally, the photonic assemblies will be manipulated to achieve unique optical functions.

This investigation will provide insight on the structure-property relations governing the optical behavior of individual and coupled QD nanocomposite structures. Additionally, a framework will be provided for obtaining tunable optical properties through the use of matrices and templates.  The knowledge obtained can be used to aid in the design of robust devices with added functionality and tunability for sensing and enhanced light modulation leading to unique optical phenomenon such as unidirectional cloaking and directional lasing.