Understanding ultrafast carrier dynamics in single quasi-one-dimensional Si nanowires

We use femtosecond optical pump-probe spectroscopy to study ultrafast carrier dynamics in single quasi-one-dimensional silicon nanowires. By isolating individual nanowires, we avoid complications resulting from the broad size and alignment distribution in nanowire ensembles, allowing us to directly probe ultrafast carrier dynamics. Spatially-resolved experiments demonstrate the influence of surface-mediated mechanisms on carrier dynamics in a single NW, while polarization-resolved experiments reveal a clear anisotropy in carrier lifetimes measured parallel and perpendicular to the long axis of the NW, due to density-dependent Auger recombination. These results suggest the possibility of tailoring carrier relaxation in a single nanowire for a desired application.