Generalized Theory of Förster-Type Nonradiative Energy Transfer in Nanostructures with Mixed Dimensionality

Förster-type nonradiative energy transfer (NRET) is widely used, especially utilizing nanostructures in different combinations and configurations. However, the existing well-accepted Förster theory is only for the case of a single particle serving as a donor together with another particle serving as an acceptor. There are also other special cases previously studied; however, there is no complete picture and unified understanding. Therefore, there is a strong need for a complete theory that models Förster-type NRET for the cases of mixed dimensionality including all combinations and configurations. We report a generalized theory for the Förster-type NRET, which includes the derivation of the effective dielectric function due to the donor in different confinement geometries and the derivation of transfer rates distance dependencies due to the acceptor in different confinement geometries, resulting in a complete picture and understanding of the mixed dimensionality.