Quantum dots are unique nanoparticles that are gaining interest for their desirable chemical and physical properties. In this study, ZnO quantum dots were synthesized using two different methods. Method one involves heating zinc acetate solutions to create Zn1+ precursors, and method two involves growing the ZnO quantum dots from a �seed� dispersion of highly modified precursor ZnO particles. LiOH was used in both methods to regulate particle growth. Low and high molecular weight siloxane modified physical stabilizers were used to decrease aggregation and improve ZnO aqueous dispersion fluorescence stability. The effects on quantum dot growth and stability in these methods were studied as a function of surface modifier structure and attachment efficiency.  Scanning Electron Microscopy,  Transmission Electron Microscopy, and Confocal Microscopy were used to measure particle quality and aggregation. The stabilized ZnO quantum dot dispersions were characterized by Dynamic Light Scattering and with Infrared,  UV-Visible, and fluorescence spectroscopy.

Synthesis and characterization of surface modified zinc oxide quantum dots

247th National Meeting (2014)

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