Growth and control of optically active quantum dots

Abstract

We provide a general overview on the different methods employed to fabricate optically active quantum dots, i.e., quantum dots which confine both electrons and holes in three dimensions. All the techniques are based on epitaxial growth of semiconductor heterostructures. We first discuss bottom-up methods based on self-assembled growth, since they are the most used for single dot investigations. We then mention top-down lithographic techniques, which allow the fabrication of dots at controlled positions. Finally we show how a clever combination of top-down and bottom-up approaches may open the route to the fabrication of quantum dots with well defined spatial and spectral properties, required for scalable devices.