Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Jing Li, Fan Mo, Lei Guo, Junhua Huang, Zheng Lu, Qin Xu, Hongbo Li
Summary: The study proposes a novel design using 3-thiopropionic acid-capped CdTe quantum dots (QDs) for copper ion photoelectrochemical sensing, which offers a wider linear range and lower detection limit, as well as additional advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and selectivity.
SENSORS AND ACTUATORS B-CHEMICAL
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Lei Jin, Jiabin Liu, Xin Liu, Daniele Benetti, Gurpreet Singh Selopal, Xin Tong, Ehsan Hamzehpoor, Faying Li, Dmytro F. Perepichka, Zhiming M. Wang, Federico Rosei
Summary: Thick-shell colloidal quantum dots (QDs) with size/composition/shape-tunable properties are promising for solar technologies. However, the commonly used toxic metal elements and wide bandgap of the shell limit their performance. This study develops eco-friendly AgInSe2/AgInS2 core/shell QDs, which are optically active in the NIR region and suitable for solar energy conversion. By using a template-assisted cation exchange method, gradient AgInSeS shell layers are incorporated, resulting in improved charge transfer and higher current density in the photoelectrochemical cells.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Zhiyong Tang, Hongchao Yang, Ziqiang Sun, Yejun Zhang, Guangcun Chen, Qiangbin Wang
Summary: Cation exchange (CE) is a promising post-synthesis strategy for colloidal nanocrystals, and the choice of cation precursor significantly affects the CE process and the final nanocrystals. In this study, two Zn-B Lewis acid-base adduct complexes were used as Zn precursors for CE with Ag2S quantum dots. The results showed that the steric hindrance and complexing capabilities of the precursor greatly influenced the CE kinetics and led to the formation of Zn-doped Ag2S and Ag2S@ZnS core-shell quantum dots. Theoretical simulation provided insights into the formation mechanisms of these nanocrystals.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Akash S. Rasal, Ting-Ying Lee, Pei-Yun Kao, Girum Gatechew, Aswandi Wibrianto, Worku Batu Dirersa, Anil Ghule, Jia-Yaw Chang
Summary: In this study, a simple and direct approach was used to develop high-quality counter electrode films for quantum dot-sensitized solar cells. By combining metallic copper chalcogenides with S, N dual-doped carbon sources, the resulting films demonstrated improved photovoltaic performance.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Rodolphe Alchaar, Corentin Dabard, Dario Mastrippolito, Erwan Bossavit, Tung Huu Dang, Mariarosa Cavallo, Adrien Khalili, Huichen Zhang, Lucile Domenach, Nicolas Ledos, Yoann Prado, David Troadec, Ji Dai, Massimo Tallarida, Federico Bisti, Fabian Cadiz, Gilles Patriarche, Jose Avila, Emmanuel Lhuillier, Debora Pierucci
Summary: HgTe is the only material capable of covering near-, short-, and mid-wave infrared due to its unique spectral tunability. Existing devices with transparent conductive oxide and gold electrodes are not completely suitable for the intended purpose. This study investigates the use of different metals (Au, Al, Ag, and Zn) and reveals that Ag causes dramatic transformations in Ag and HgTe. The careful choice of surrounding electrodes is crucial for HgTe devices, while Au and Al show stability in this transformation.
JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY C
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Zhongjiang Sun, Qianqian Wu, Sheng Wang, Fan Cao, Yimin Wang, Lufa Li, Haihui Wang, Lingmei Kong, Limin Yan, Xuyong Yang
Summary: Indium phosphide (InP) quantum dots (QDs) with highly luminescent InP/ZnSe/ZnS QDs were successfully synthesized by constructing Se-rich shielding layers on the surfaces of InP cores, which improved the external quantum efficiency of QLED devices at high luminance.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Yujin Kim, Seonghoon Lee
Summary: By investigating the role of Zn precursor based on hard and soft acids and bases theory, it was found that Zn precursor acts as a reaction suppressant, a size regulator, and a dopant in the synthesis of III-V cores with Mn and Ca precursors. The primary role played by Zn precursor at different concentrations was also revealed in the study.
CHEMICAL COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Review
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Meng-Yao Su, Xin-Yuan Li, Jia-Tao Zhang
Summary: This review summarizes the synthesis strategies of colloidal telluride semiconductor nanocrystals (CT-SNCs), including the cation exchange reaction (CER) method, and the resulting CT-SNCs with well-controlling size, shape, composition, crystallization and hetero-interfaces. It also covers the recent progress of their applications in the field of photoelectric detection, catalysis, batteries and biology, as well as the enhanced properties of new hybrid CT-SNCs nanostructures.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Yun Shu, Yan Wang, Jie Guan, Zhengping Ji, Qin Xu, Xiaoya Hu
Summary: This study proposed a powerful ligand engineering strategy to eliminate surface defects and aggregation of CsPbBr3nanocrystals (NCs), improving their colloidal stability and fluorescence. The as-synthesized NCs with amphiphilic polymer-modified ligands exhibited high photoluminescence intensity and stability. Furthermore, the NCs showed enhanced water, photostability and thermal stability. Additionally, a colorimetric sensor based on these NCs was successfully constructed for the detection of chloride ions in sweat, enabling rapid, visual and accurate detection.
ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Zihan Chen, Yaohong Zhang, Zhi Li Teh, Jianfeng Yang, Lin Yuan, Gavin J. Conibeer, Robert J. Patterson, Qing Shen, Shujuan Huang, Zhilong Zhang
Summary: Quantum dots (QDs) play essential roles in optoelectronic devices and their protection can significantly enhance device performance. Lead sulfide QD photovoltaics can be improved through zinc salt post-treatments on the hole transport layer (HTL), with different zinc salts affecting the functionality of HTL.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Omair Shahid, Sweta Yadav, Debanjan Maity, Melepurath Deepa, Manish K. K. Niranjan, Jai Prakash
Summary: We synthesized single crystals of the quaternary sulfide BaCeCuS3 for the first time by heating a polycrystalline sample with KCl flux in a vacuum-sealed fused silica tube. The crystal structure was determined to be orthorhombic with tetrahedral CuS4 and octahedral CeS6 units serving as the main building blocks. Optical absorption studies showed a direct bandgap of 1.8 eV, consistent with the green color of the sample. Thermal conductivity measurements revealed an extremely low value at high temperatures. DFT calculations predicted a high thermoelectric figure of merit, and a liquid junction solar cell fabricated with BaCeCuS3 showed improved efficiency compared to a cell without the sulfide due to its hole conducting properties.
NEW JOURNAL OF CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Hongchao Yang, Haoying Huang, Xiang Ma, Yejun Zhang, Xiaohu Yang, Mengxuan Yu, Ziqiang Sun, Chunyan Li, Feng Wu, Qiangbin Wang
Summary: A novel NIR-IIb fluorescent probe of Au-doped Ag2Te quantum dots with high PLQY, stability, and biocompatibility was developed. Controllable Au dopant concentration in Ag2Te QDs allowed for wide range of PL emission in the NIR-IIb window and enhanced PL intensity, enabling successful in vivo monitoring of angiogenesis and arteriogenesis processes.
ADVANCED MATERIALS
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Leiping Duan, Long Hu, Xinwei Guan, Chun-Ho Lin, Dewei Chu, Shujuan Huang, Xiaogang Liu, Jianyu Yuan, Tom Wu
Summary: This review compares the similarities and differences between lead chalcogenide and lead halide perovskite QDs for photovoltaic applications, focusing on their fundamental physical properties and state-of-the-art devices with an emphasis on ligand and device engineering. Special attention is also given to the stability issue that often hinders photovoltaic technologies, with discussions on future developments, challenges associated with large-size cell fabrication and lead toxicity, as well as potential mitigation solutions.
ADVANCED ENERGY MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Mengxuan Yu, Xiaohu Yang, Yejun Zhang, Hongchao Yang, Haoying Huang, Zan Wang, Jinyi Dong, Rong Zhang, Ziqiang Sun, Chunyan Li, Qiangbin Wang
Summary: A tailored route is reported for achieving controllable doping of Ag2Se QDs by exchanging Ag with Pb via cation exchange, resulting in significantly enhanced photoluminescence intensity. The Pb:Ag2Se QDs exhibit new optical features and can be successfully used for lymphatic system mapping.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
S. Akhil, R. Geetha Balakrishna
Summary: Cu-based ternary chalcogenides, specifically CuBiSe2 quantum dots, show promising potential as low-cost and eco-friendly alternatives to heavy-metal based photosensitizers. They possess optimal bandgap, high photoresponsivity, and photostability. This work investigates their application as photoabsorber materials for solar cells, achieving a satisfactory power conversion efficiency of 2%. A further increase in efficiency up to 2.6% is observed with the formation of a heterostructure CuBiSe2/CuBiS2. This research provides insights into the electronic structure and dynamics of Cu-based selenium quantum dots, significantly impacting future research in optoelectronic applications.
ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Christina H. M. van Oversteeg, Marisol Tapia Rosales, Kristiaan H. Helfferich, Mahnaz Ghiasi, Johannes D. Meeldijk, Nienke J. Firet, Peter Ngene, Celso de Mello Donega, Petra E. de Jongh
Summary: The study introduces a novel strategy for preparing Cu nanoparticle catalysts and investigates the evolution of Cu species under CO2 reduction conditions, revealing the selectivity and efficiency of the catalysts.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Hongyu An, Longfei Wu, Laurens D. B. Mandemaker, Shuang Yang, Jim de Ruiter, Jochem H. J. Wijten, Joris C. L. Janssens, Thomas Hartman, Ward van der Stam, Bert M. Weckhuysen
Summary: The study successfully monitored the process of carbon dioxide reduction to hydrocarbons using time-resolved Raman spectroscopy, and found that anodic treatment and surface oxide reduction of the copper electrode can improve CO2RR efficiency and time resolution.
ANGEWANDTE CHEMIE-INTERNATIONAL EDITION
(2021)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Marie Anne van de Haar, Mohamed Tachikirt, Anne C. Berends, Michael R. Krames, Andries Meijerink, Freddy T. Rabouw
Summary: Commercial lighting with LED phosphor materials based on blue light-emitting diodes may saturate in high-power applications, leading to decreased light output. By investigating the saturation mechanisms through experiments and modeling, strategies to improve performance and efficiency can be developed.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Chenghui Xia, Christina H. M. van Oversteeg, Veerle C. L. Bogaards, Tim H. M. Spanjersberg, Nienke L. Visser, Anne C. Berends, Johannes D. Meeldijk, Petra E. de Jongh, Celso de Mello Donega
Summary: Colloidal heteronanocrystals offer the synergistic combination of properties of different materials, such as spatial separation of photogenerated charge carriers to improve the efficiency of photocatalysts and photovoltaic devices. The synthesis of Cu2-xS/CuInS2 Janus-type heteronanorods through a two-step process allows for the rational design of heteronanocrystals with targeted architectures. By exploiting the size and faceting of premade Cu2-xS seed nanocrystals, the growth of the CuInS2 segment is directed, showcasing the potential for controlled synthesis in the formation of heteronanocrystals.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Claudiu M. Iaru, Annalisa Brodu, Niels J. J. van Hoof, Stan E. T. ter Huurne, Jonathan Buhot, Federico Montanarella, Sophia Buhbut, Peter C. M. Christianen, Daniel Vanmaekelbergh, Celso de Mello Donega, Jaime Gomez Rivas, Paul M. Koenraad, Andrei Yu Silov
Summary: By investigating the phonon spectrum, a dominant phonon mode in CsPbBr3 responsible for electron-phonon scattering was identified, and it was found that the strength of the Frohlich interaction is significantly higher due to carrier localization in colloidal perovskite nanocrystals.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Johanna C. van der Bok, P. Tim Prins, Federico Montanarella, D. Nicolette Maaskant, Floor A. Brzesowsky, Maaike M. van der Sluijs, Bastiaan B. Salzmann, Freddy T. Rabouw, Andrei Petukhov, Celso De Mello Donega, Daniel Vanmaekelbergh, Andries Meijerink
Summary: Researchers found through in situ studies that in the early stage of the CdSe nanoplatelet reaction, both isotropic nanocrystals and mini-nanoplatelets form in the absence of short-chain ligands, but most precursors are consumed in isotropic growth. The addition of acetate induces a dramatic shift towards nearly exclusive 2D growth of already existing mini-nanoplatelets. Therefore, mature nanoplatelets only grow through a subtle interplay between myristate and acetate, with the latter catalyzing fast lateral growth of the side facets of the mini-nanoplatelets.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Adi Harchol, Yahel Barak, Kira E. Hughes, Kimberly H. Hartstein, Huygen J. Jobsis, P. Tim Prins, Celso de Mello Donega, Daniel R. Gamelin, Efrat Lifshitz
Summary: This study elucidates the recombination processes and spin properties of copper-doped CdSe/CdS and CuInS2 colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) using optically detected magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The findings support different models for the magneto-optical properties of these important materials.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Serena Busatto, Claudia Spallacci, Johannes D. Meeldijk, Stuart Howes, Celso de Mello Donega
Summary: This study reported the room temperature synthesis of ultrathin CdTe magic-size nanowires, revealing their growth mechanism and the crucial role of primary alkylamines in the growth process.
JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY C
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
P. Tim Prins, Dirk A. W. Spruijt, Mark J. J. Mangnus, Freddy T. Rabouw, Daniel Vanmaekelbergh, Celso de Mello Donega, Pieter Geiregat
Summary: Impurity doping of III-V colloidal quantum dots remains underexplored. This study shows that electron cooling is fast in copper-doped InP quantum dots, while hole localization is slow but still leads to efficient luminescence.
JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS
(2022)
Article
Biology
Marina Cecilia Gimenez, Michelle Luxwolda, Eila G. Van Stipriaan, Pauline P. Bollen, Rieks L. Hoekman, Marthe A. Koopmans, Praveen R. Arany, Michael R. Krames, Anne C. Berends, Roelof A. Hut, Marijke C. M. Gordijn
Summary: In Western societies, people's indoor lifestyle and limited exposure to sunlight can have negative effects on their health and well-being. This study investigated the benefits of near-infrared light exposure in improving well-being and health, especially in winter when sunlight is less available. The results highlight the potential of incorporating near-infrared light technology into daily life for a healthier society.
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Joanna Dehnel, Adi Harchol, Yahel Barak, Itay Meir, Faris Horani, Arthur Shapiro, Rotem Strassberg, Celso de Mello Donega, Hilmi Volkan Demir, Daniel R. Gamelin, Kusha Sharma, Efrat Lifshitz
Summary: Incorporating magnetic ions into semiconductor nanocrystals is a promising research field for manipulating spin-related properties. Various host materials and magnetic ions have been studied, and the impact of nanostructure engineering and ion selection in carrier-magnetic ion interactions is emphasized. The use of optically detected magnetic resonance spectroscopy provides valuable insights into the spin dynamics and physical parameters of the carrier-magnetic ion interactions.
JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL PHYSICS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Serena Busatto, Celso de Mello Donega
Summary: Research on magic-size colloidal nanostructures is still in its infancy, and many fundamental questions remain unanswered. The formation mechanisms and enhanced stability of these structures are complex and not yet understood. Further experimental investigations are needed to unravel these mysteries.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Longfei Wu, Kees E. Kolmeijer, Yue Zhang, Hongyu An, Sven Arnouts, Sara Bals, Thomas Altantzis, Jan P. Hofmann, Marta Costa Figueiredo, Emiel J. M. Hensen, Bert M. Weckhuysen, Ward van der Stam
Summary: Nanoparticle modified electrodes are an attractive way to tailor efficient carbon dioxide reduction catalysts, but the restructuring and sintering processes of nanoparticles under electrochemical reaction conditions can hinder their widespread application. By colloidally synthesizing and utilizing metallic copper and silver nanoparticles, the stabilization effect between Cu and Ag nanoparticles was observed, leading to suppressed sintering and tunable selectivity in CO2 reduction reactions. This stabilization effect is attributed to the positive enthalpies of Cu-Ag solid solutions, enabling the design and fabrication of durable CO2 reduction nanocatalysts.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jaco J. Geuchies, Baldur Brynjarsson, Gianluca Grimaldi, Solrun Gudjonsdottir, Ward van der Stam, Wiel H. Evers, Arjan J. Houtepen
Summary: Research demonstrates that by electrochemically doping films of CdSe/CdS/ZnS QDs, quantitative control over the gain threshold can be achieved, opening up a new route for the creation of cheap, solution-processable, low-threshold QD lasers.