Detecting non-Markovian plasmonic band gaps in quantum dots using electron transport

Abstract

Placing a quantum dot close to a metal nanowire leads to drastic changes in its radiative decay behavior because of evanescent couplings to surface plasmons. We show how two non-Markovian effects, band edge and retardation, could be observed in such a system. Combined with a quantum-dot $p\text{\ensuremath{-}}i\text{\ensuremath{-}}n$ junction, these effects could be readout via current-noise measurements. We also discuss how these effects can occur in similar systems with restricted geometries, such as phononic cavities and photonic crystal waveguides. This work links two previously separate topics: surface plasmons and current-noise measurements.