Hydrophilic semiconductor quantum dots

Comparative analysis of recent literature data on hydrophilization of semiconductor quantum dots, which are actively used at present in various fields, has been performed. The main methods of preparation of hydrophilic quantum dots are considered: synthesis of the particles in aqueous solutions; replacement of hydrophobic ligands with hydrophilic ligands in the shells stabilizing the particles; creation of a second, water-soluble shell around the hydrophobic particles; and various methods of post-preparative treatment to improve photoluminescent properties of quantum dots.