Quantum dots (QDs) are semiconducting nanomaterials which are typically between one and ten nanometers. Due to the small size of QDs, they are capable of quantum confinement, an attribute allowing for the explicitly control over their band gap and associated qualities. The tunability of QDs gives rise to an abundance of applications including light emitting diodes (LEDs), solar imaging, and medical imaging. The properties of QDs can be further tuned through the insertion of impurities of dopants into the structure. The addition of dopants can alter the electronical, magnetic, and optical properties of the traditional QD thus enhancing its functionality. Cadmium selenide (CdSe) is an established II-VI semiconducting material whose available literature is quite abundant. However, information on the doping capabilities of CdSe with rare-earth (RE) elements is quite limited. This research project dealt with the investigation of two synthetic approaches to dope CdSe with different RE elements. CdSe exists in two distinct crystal structures: hexagonal (wurtzite) and cubic (zinc-blende). Through the investigation of both crystal structures, we were able to monitor how the doping efficiency changes in relation to crystal structure. We also observed spectroscopic changes that occurred upon doping these systems with the RE elements.

Synthesis and characterization of CdSe quantum dots doped with rare-earth elements

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.