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Cathodoluminescence Lab

Does your material emit light unevenly, or hide nanoscale defects? At the Cathodoluminescence Laboratory, we map optical emission using a focused electron beam. We help you uncover and document your material's properties, with direct access to SDU's experts.

Start the collaboration today

Uncover defects and emission in 2D materials

At the Cathodoluminescence Laboratory, your company can get its material's light emission mapped, down to the nanoscale. We use a focused electron beam to reveal optical and structural information that conventional light based measurements cannot show. The facility suits you if you work with 2D materials, quantum emitters or plasmonic structures.

You get emission spectra and intensity mapped with nanoscale resolution, and we examine polarisation, photon statistics and temperature dependence. Selected materials can also be tested under controlled strain. The result is insight into defects and the link between structure and optical response, ready to use in your development.

Laboratory Manager

Sergii Morozov
Center for polarization-driven Light-Matter Interactions (POLIMA)
Mads Clausen Institute (MCI)

Contact and book here

What the laboratory can help with

  • A material may appear uniform under an optical microscope while containing local defects or changes in composition that alter its emission. We use a focused electron beam to map light emission with nanoscale spatial resolution.

    By comparing spectral and spatial information, we can identify regions with different optical responses and relate them to the material's local structure.

  • The performance of antennas, metasurfaces and other nanophotonic structures depends not only on emission intensity but also on direction and polarisation. We measure angular radiation patterns, momentum resolved emission and polarisation.

    The results reveal how geometry and local electromagnetic modes shape the emitted light and support comparison with optical models.

  • Room temperature measurements can hide narrow spectral features and processes affected by lattice vibrations. Our cryogenic stage enables cathodoluminescence measurements down to liquid nitrogen temperatures.

    Comparing temperature conditions can separate overlapping features, reveal temperature sensitive transitions and provide a clearer picture of the underlying emission mechanisms.

  • Defects, interfaces and local variations can create unwanted emission or suppress useful optical transitions. Cathodoluminescence maps band edge and defect related emission across the sample.

    This helps distinguish different emission pathways, locate optically active regions and determine which nanoscale features should be investigated further with complementary methods.

Illustration of a glowing light bulb, Nordic Humanities Center

FAQ

  • Contact laboratory responsible Sergii Morozov at semo@mci.sdu.dk. Describe your material, the scientific question and the intended outcome briefly. We then assess whether the task suits the instrument, and agree on sample requirements, schedule and expected results.

  • The laboratory is located at SDU's Odense campus, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark. We confirm the exact building and access arrangements when we plan your visit.

  • The price depends on the scope, measurement type, required analysis, confidentiality needs and delivery time. We agree a specific arrangement with you before work begins.

  • We mainly investigate 2D semiconductors, quantum emitters, plasmonic nanostructures and van der Waals heterostructures. Other solid materials may also be suitable if they tolerate high vacuum and electron beams, and fit our sample holders.

  • We mainly investigate 2D semiconductors, quantum emitters, plasmonic nanostructures and van der Waals heterostructures. Other solid materials may also be suitable if they tolerate high vacuum and electron beams, and fit our sample holders.

Want to know more?

Laboratory Manager

Sergii Morozov
Center for polarization-driven Light-Matter Interactions (POLIMA)
Mads Clausen Institute (MCI)

Contact and book here

Collaborate with SDU

Perhaps you know what you are looking for. Or maybe you are unsure about the possibilities or just curious? 

No matter where you start, we will help you move forward - for example, by finding the right researcher, department, or entry point into SDU. We also provide guidance on legal matters, finances, and the practical framework for collaboration.

Contact us here