Applied Science and Convergence Technology 2021; 30(1): 6-13
Published online January 30, 2021
https://doi.org/10.5757/ASCT.2021.30.1.6
Copyright © The Korean Vacuum Society.
Jihye Leea , b and Jong-Souk Yeoa , b , *
aSchool of Integrated Technology, Yonsei University, Incheon 21983, Republic of Korea
bYonsei Institute of Convergence Technology, Yonsei University, Incheon 21983, Republic of Korea
Correspondence to:jongsoukyeo@yonsei.ac.kr
Light sources are ubiquitous in our lives. Common light sources include sunlight and incandescent lamps, which emit visible spectrum to help us to see surrounding objects via blackbody radiation. Further understanding and control on the quanta of light, called photons, have led to numerous advances in nanophotonics and related research fields, but recently their impact has been most notable in quantum computing, communications, biosensing, and imaging technology. Most of these applications have been made possible through the development of ultrasmall and ultrafast light sources based on advanced nanotechnology. In this review, we aim to give a clear picture of the historical achievements regarding light sources and how recent studies have developed the field of ultrasmall light sources, especially in relation to quantum electron tunneling mechanisms. Finally, we discuss the potential applications for emerging quantum devices and sensing technologies.
Keywords: Light source, Quantum electron tunneling, On-chip quantum devices, Biosensors, Chemical sensors