Quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor nanocrystals, that exhibit unique optical and electronic properties due to quantum confinement effects. These properties have led to significant advancements in various fields of advanced materials, impacting technologies from display systems to biomedical applications.
Light Emitting Applications
One of the most exciting uses of quantum dots is in screens and displays. Quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QD-LEDs) are getting a lot of attention because they can produce brighter, more vibrant colors and allow for better control over the colors displayed. Recent improvements in these devices have been making them more efficient and longer-lasting, which could make them a great alternative to older display technologies like LCDs. technologies (Fan, J., Han, C., Yang, G., Song, B., Xu, R., Xiang, C., Zhang, T., & Qian, L. (2024).
Biomedical Applications
In medicine, quantum dots are being studied for their ability to improve imaging and diagnostics. Because they glow brightly and remain stable, they can help doctors see inside the body in real time and detect tiny molecules more accurately. Researchers are also exploring their use in targeted drug delivery, where they can carry medicine directly to specific cells while also helping track treatment progress in the body (Wagner, A. M., Knipe, J. M., Orive, G., & Peppas, N. A. (2019).
Photovoltaic and Photodetector Applications
Quantum dots are also being used to improve solar panels. They can help capture more energy from sunlight by making each ray of light produce more electricity than usual. In addition, they are being used in special light sensors that can detect both visible and infrared light. These sensors are easy to make and can be added to different types of materials, making them useful for various technologies (Ramiro, I., & Martí, A. (2020).
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite the promising applications, challenges remain in the development of quantum dot-based technologies. Issues such as the toxicity of certain quantum dot materials, long-term stability, and scalability of production need to be addressed. Ongoing research is focused on developing heavy-metal-free quantum dots and improving fabrication techniques to overcome these challenges (Wang, Y., Peng, L., Schreier, J., Bi, Y., Black, A., Malla, A., Goosens, S., & Konstantatos, G. (2024).
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