It has been predicted that the coupling of semiconductor quantum dots with gold nanorods will result in the formation of a new hybrid material possessing optical properties unique from either material on its own. Further, it is predicted that these optical properties will be able to be turned "on" and "off", similar to a light switch, by exciting the system with a short laser pulse. Such a material would have applications in the development of quantum computers, ultra-small lasers, highly efficient displays, and increased efficiency in solar cells. In order to better understand the behavior and properties of such a system, we seek to synthesize discrete assemblies consisting of gold nanorods linked to cadmium selenide quantum dots and study their optical properties on a single-particle level. To this end, we have functionalized CdSe quantum dots with NHS ester-activated thioctic acid and have replaced the CTAB ligands on the nanorods with thiolated PEG and a small portion of aminated thioctic acid ligands in order to covalently couple the nanorods to the quantum dots through amide bond formation. Preliminary tests using gold nanoparticles in place of quantum dots show the ability to selectively activate and link the ends of nanorods, resulting in the formation of controlled assemblies. Currently work is in progress to replicate these results using quantum dots, as well as to better control the coupling reaction.

Assembly of CdSe quantum dots and gold nanorods into discrete arrangements with unique optical properties

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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