Cutting-edge nano-LED technology

Abstract

In this Perspective, we will introduce possible future developments on group III-nitride nano-LEDs, which are based on current achievements in this rapidly arising research-technological field. First, the challenges facing their fabrication and their characteristics will be reported. These developments will be set in a broader context with primary applications in lighting, display technology, biology, and sensing. In the following, we will center on advanced applications in microscopy, lithography, communication, and optical computing. We will discuss unconventional device applications and prospects for emerging photon source-based technologies. Beyond conventional and current achievements in optoelectronics, we will present hybrid nano-LED architectures. Novel device concepts potentially could play an essential role in future photon source developments and serve as a key component for optical computing. Therefore, forefront fully photon operated logic circuits, photon-based computational processors, and photon driving memories will be discussed. All these developments will play a significant role in a future highly secure, low energy consuming green IT. Besides today's environmentally friendly terrestrial industrial and information technologies, an enormous potential of nano-LED technology for a large range of applications especially in the next stage of space research is envisaged.