Far-Field Optical Nanothermometry via Luminescent Nanomaterials

Andrea Pickel, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Rochester

Gavett 202

From transistors to LEDs, as device length scales trend downward, poor thermal dissipation increasingly leads to nanoscale hotspots that limit performance. To address this challenge, nanoscale thermometry tools must be developed. Conventional far-field optical methods provide a convenient non-contact approach, but these techniques are fundamentally diffraction limited.

In the Nanoscale Thermal Transport Lab, we take advantage of the unique properties of luminescent nanomaterials to achieve far-field optical thermometry with spatial resolution below the diffraction limit. Similarly, we are also working to develop nanoscale temperature sensors that have outstanding temporal resolution, can withstand harsh chemical environments, and can be manipulated with nanoscale precision in order to enable practical applications. We apply primarily experimental methods, particularly optical techniques, to achieve these outcomes.

The ultimate goal of this research is to improve the performance and reliability of data storage, optoelectronic, and integrated circuit devices, and to advance our fundamental understanding of nanoscale energy transport and conversion.