A quantum dot (QD) is a tiny semiconductor particle, only a few nanometers in size, that can emit and absorb light with incredible precision. They are point particles and are therefore zero-dimensional. QDs are much more energy-efficient than traditional materials and enable brighter colors.
Applications[]
- Quantum dots produce brighter, more vibrant colors in TVs, monitors, and phone screens. Used in Samsung QLED TVs and quantum dot OLED (QD-OLED) technology.
- Quantum dots can boost solar panel efficiency by capturing more light. Can be used in flexible, lightweight, and transparent solar cells. The record for color-neutral transparent solar cells is 8.1% efficiency and 43.3% transparency.
- Silicon QDs are used in bioimaging and fluorescence markers for disease detection. More precise than traditional dyes in tracking cancer cells or viruses.
- Quantum dots can have antibacterial properties similar to nanoparticles and can kill bacteria in a dose-dependent manner.
- Quantum dots act as qubits, which are essential for quantum computers. Can improve data encryption and ultra-secure communications.
- Used in high-efficiency LED lighting with customizable colors. Can create better, more natural lighting for homes and offices.
- Carbon quantum dots are carbon nanoparticles which are less than 10 nm in size.
- A carbon nanotube quantum dot (CNT QD) is a small region of a carbon nanotube in which electrons are confined.