Enhanced F&diaero;rster resonance energy transfer between the CdTe quantum dots in proximity to gold nanoparticles

F&diaero;rster resonant energy transfer (FRET) between the CdTe quantum dot (QD) acting as donors and acceptors is investigated at nanoscale proximity to gold nanoparticles (Au NPs). Photoluminescence (PL) studies of the acceptor QD emission from a mixed monolayer showed a distance dependent enhancement of the acceptor emission compared with that achieved for a donor-acceptor mixed monolayer in the absence of the Au NP layer. Time-resolved photoluminescence measurements showing a reduction in the donor lifetime, accompanied by an increase in the acceptor PL lifetime, provide further evidence for surface plasmon enhanced FRET.