Tuning the properties of magnetic CdMnTe quantum dots

We show that CdMnTe self-assembled quantum dots (QDs) can be formed by depositing a submonolayer of Mn ions over a ZnTe surface prior to deposition of the CdTe dot layer. Single-dot emission lines and strongly polarized QD photoluminescence (PL) in an applied magnetic field confirm the presence of Mn in individual QDs. The width of PL lines of the single CdMnTe dots is 3 meV due to magnetic moment fluctuations (MMFs) of the Mn ions. After rapid thermal annealing, the emission lines of individual magnetic QDs narrow significantly to 0.25 meV, showing that effect of MMFs is strongly reduced, most probably due to an increase in the average QD size. These results suggest a way to tune the spin properties of magnetic QDs.