Low-threshold amplified UV emission of optically pumped ZnO-polymer nanocomposites

Abstract Metal oxide-polymer nanocomposites have the combined properties of inorganic and organic materials which can pave the way for a wide array of applications. In short-wavelength optoelectronics, zinc oxide (ZnO) is an attractive component for nanocomposites owing to its stable ultraviolet (UV) luminescence at room temperature. We present herein the observed amplification of the UV emission of oriented ZnO nanorods topped by different polymer layers. The optical emission properties are investigated under different excitation power densities. The as-grown nanorods exhibit UV emission that increases linearly with excitation. On the other hand, the ZnO-polymer nanocomposites exhibit dramatic UV emission enhancement and spectral narrowing. The results show that amplified UV emission can be achieved at a lower excitation threshold by incorporating a polymer layer on top of oriented ZnO nanorods. In this regard, the ZnO-polymer nanocomposites show potential as low-threshold UV light sources attractive for optoelectronic devices.