Strain-induced modulations in nonlinear optical rectification of core/shell quantum dots within an MEH-PPV polymer matrix under electric field: a 3D finite-element modeling study

This research aims to explore how the MEH-PPV polymer matrix and the strength of the applied field (EF) affect an electron confined within strained CdSe/ZnSe spherical core/shell quantum dots (CSQDs). By solving the Schrödinger equation using the element method (FEM) and effective mass approximation we calculated eigenenergy values and their corresponding wavefunctions. Through a compact density matrix approach, we examined how the MEH-PPV polymer matrix, QDs size and electric field intensity impact nonlinear rectification (NOR), in both unstrained systems. By considering factors such as the surrounding polymer matrix and size confinement we analysed computed coefficients related to EF intensity, peak locations and shifts. Our key findings suggest that understanding NOR in relation to parameters and surrounding materials can provide insights, for improving future optoelectronic and photonic devices.