Disorder-induced optical heterogeneity in single CdSe nanowires

Solution-grown CdSe nanowires (NWs) combine numerous aspects of 1D carrier physics. The effects of disorder on the optical properties of individual, quantum-confined straight/branched NWs (see TEM and fluorescence images) is shown here; in these NWs the optical heterogeneity is apparent through non-uniform intrawire emission intensities. The current study has relevance to applications of NWs as y-branch switches([17]) or as active elements in hybrid photovoltaics given the impact such heterogeneity may have on their transport properties.