Nearly Mono‐disperse Quantum Dots of ZnSe: Synthesis and Characterization

Nearly mono‐disperse high quality quantum dots (QDs) of zinc selenide have been synthesized by organometallic route that includes use of well known surfactants such as a carboxylic acid and trioctylphosphine (TOP). Single‐step synthesis was performed at a temperature that is lower than many reported methods for such quantum dots of semiconductors. UV‐Visible spectra of series of experiments showed steep absorption band at about 418 nm (Eg=∼3.0 eV). Photoluminescence measurement revealed band‐edge emission at ∼431 nm from the ZnSe QDs. The particle size was found to be between 3–5 nm as calculated by Scherrer equation at <111> crystal plane of the hexagonal crystal structure of ZnSe. Particle size‐distribution by dynamic light scattering technique showed narrow‐size distribution of the particles within 10 nm. The particles are highly re‐dispersible in organic solvents such as n‐hexane and toluene thus making the dots useful for opto‐electronic devices.

Keywords:

• quantum dots
• semiconductor
• surface capping
• chemical synthesis

We thank Executive Director, C‐MET for encouragement and his direct participation in the work.