[摘要]:We propose by exploring CdTe/PbTe single heterojunctions (SHs) that the abnormal enhancement of mid-infrared light emission from CdTe/PbTe heterostructures is due to coupling with surface plasmons. It is discovered that the observed intense mid-infrared luminescence in the SHs comes from the inherent polar interface character and coupling of surface plasmons localized at the metallic CdTe/PbTe interface to light emitted from the narrow gap PbTe. The finding offers an approach to manipulate mid-infrared light and to fabricate improved mid-infrared optoelectronic devices. (C) 2012 American Institute of Physics. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.4711042]