Generation of Quantum-dot Photon Emission in h-BN via Local Strain Engineering

We reported a low-cost and easy-to-make method to effectively generate quantum dot (QD) states in 2D hBN films for quantum emissions at room temperature by utilizing silica nanospheres, in comparison with the sophisticated nanofabrication method reported in previous studies. The QDs created in 2D hBN films using silica nanospheres exhibit pronounced photon emissions with a good photo-stability in air, a narrow distribution of the emission peaks within the range of 580–620 nm, and a directional emission pattern, behaving as a single electric dipole. Our work develops the method of controllable fabrication of quantum emitters in 2D materials by using nano materials and structures.