Influence of the quantum confined Stark effect on photoluminescence spectra of PbTe nanodots embedded in a CdTe matrix

The quantum confined Stark effect induced by electric fields is of outstanding importance for nanostructure properties. In embedded quantum dots, it occurs as consequence of internal electric fields related to interface charges. A quantum dot model including the quantum confined Stark effect is proposed. It is applied to PbTe/CdTe quantum dot precipitates. The predicted photoluminescence spectra are compared with results of photoluminescence experiments. The unexpected photoluminescence intensity drop at low temperatures is interpreted to be a consequence of the internal quantum confined Stark effect.