Quantum Dots and Semiconductor Nanomaterials
Nanomaterials: Carbon Nanotubes | Ceramics | Quantum Dots | Metals
Smart Grids can be extremely useful to both the manufacturing and application of semiconductor nanomaterials. As a QC tool, quantum dot manfacturers and customers can readily asses the size distribution of the nanoparticulate materials to ensure they meet specifications. As a manufacturing tool, Smart Grids will enable the manufacturer to assess batch-to-batch variability and to qualify products for shipping. In addition, Smart grids can be used as an aid to assess the structure-property-processing condition relationships for assemblies of these materials.
Specific applications include, but are not limited to:
- Authentication/Security
- Medical Diagnostics
- Biological imaging
- Photovoltaics
- Quantum computing
- Quantum cryptography
- Light emitting diodes/Diode lasers
- Photodetectors
- Spintronics
Quantum Dots are semiconductor crystals whose unique properties offer the potential for a wide range of applications. Quantum dots are typically in the range 2-50 nm in diameter and often have what is known as core-shell structures in which a shell comprised of a different material coats the core of the particle. Perhaps the most unique characteristics of quantum dots are their optical properties. As the particle diameter decreases in size their optical emission dramatically changes. Often changes in diameter of <1 nm can dramatically affect the emission wavelength of these particles.
Other forms of semiconductor nanomaterials that are currently in use or under investigation include nanotubes, nanowires/nanorods, nanoprisms, nanoplates, and nanohorns. These materials cover a broad range of chemistries including arsenides, selenides, nitrides, phosphides, antimonides, tellurides, and oxides.