https://doi.org/10.15407/iopt.2023.58.021

Optoelectron. Semicond. Tech. 58, 21-45 (2023)

D.V. Korbutyak, O.H. Kosynov, B.N. Kulchytskyi


ULTRASMALL QUANTUM DOTS: FEATURES OF SYNTHESIS, OPTICAL

PROPERTIES AND PROSPECTS FOR PRACTICAL USE (REVIEW).


In recent years, interest in ultra-small (on the order of 2 nm) quantum dots (QDs) has increased. This subset of

CTs includes clusters of magic sizes corresponding to a certain, clearly defined number of atoms. Ultrasmall CTs are

characterized by unique properties - sharp absorption of light and almost complete surface luminescence.

They are promising for a variety of applications, ranging from dye-sensitized solar cells, white light LEDs, and

biomedical sensing due to their controllable electronic structure and large specific surface area. In this review, modern

methods of synthesis of ultrasmall quantum dots are considered: the method of high-temperature organic synthesis, the

method of hot injection, sonochemical synthesis of QDs of magical sizes, etc.

Ultra-small quantum dots are used in solar cells. Due to their large surface-to-volume ratio, compared to

traditional materials, they have a higher absorption efficiency, meaning they can convert a higher percentage of incident

light into electricity. In contrast to the traditional production of solar cells based on organic solutions, which require

high-temperature processing or an inert atmosphere during sputtering, and also have low stability in the open air, a

method of processing solar cells with a solution containing PbS/ZnO is proposed. of nanocrystals in open air and at

room temperature.

Ultrasmall quantum dots are used in medicine due to their unique properties. Overall, they have several

advantages over traditional imaging and sensing tools, such as higher brightness, longer fluorescence lifetimes, and

tunable emission spectra. Current research is focused on increasing the stability and biocompatibility of quantum dots

and developing new methods for their inclusion in various biomedical applications.

Keywords: quantum dot, synthesis, optical absorption, luminescence, medicine, solar energy.