In confined nanostructures such as quantum wells, quantum wires and quantum dots, the energy levels of electrons become discrete. Many advanced optoelectronic devices, for instance lasers or photodetectors, are based on these discrete energy levels. In a similar manner, the confinement effect of nanostructures is applied to quantized lattice waves, or phonons.
This unique book about the theory of phonons in nanostructures is divided into three parts. The first part deals with basic knowledge regarding lattice vibrations and their physical properties, while the second part is dedicated to hybrid lattice excitations and associated phonons in nanostructures such as quantum wells, quantum wires and quantum dots. The last part focuses on electron-phonon interactions in quantum structures.
The book is written by a brilliant scientist with a gift for explaining very difficult issues of solid-state physics in an accessible manner. Therefore, the book can be read by anyone with basic knowledge of solid-state physics, including graduate physicists. Since nanoscientists have intensively exploited electron confinement in quantum nanostructures, changing entire domains of applied sciences such as electronics or computing, this book could be the starting point to ponder whether nanostructures based on phonons could be used in new innovative devices.
Review by Daniela Dragoman, University of Bucharest, Romania
The opinions expressed in the book review section are those of the reviewer and do not necessarily reflect those of OPN or OSA.