Probing the Fermi energy level and the density of states distribution in PbTe nanocrystal (quantum dot) solids by temperature-dependent thermopower measurements.

摘要: The position of the Fermi energy level (E(F)) with respect to where transport process occurs (transport level, E(T)) is an important parameter that determines electrical properties semiconductors. However, little attention has been devoted investigating E(F) in semiconductor nanocrystal solids, both theoretically and experimentally. In this study, we perform temperature-dependent thermopower measurements on PbTe solids directly probe - E(T). We observe as size nanocrystals reduces, E(T) increases primarily due widening density state (DOS) gap. Furthermore, by modifying monodispersity nanocrystals, increase distribution states sharpens. This work promotes a deeper understanding thermal occupation well electronic processes solid systems.