Scientists say a new technique to control the shape of particles (Creating the future technology ) the size of a tenth of the width of a human hair could make the technology that powers our daily lives more stable and sustainable work well.
According to the Cardiff University team, this process, which changes the structure of microscopic semiconductors known as quantum dots, allows companies to improve optoelectronics, energy, photonics and biomedical imaging technology.
Their study, supported by the Engineering and Health Research Center (EPSRC) and published in Nano Letters, used a technique called nanofaceting – the arrangement of small, flat particles in nanoparticles – to make quantum dots into the ‘different types are called nanocrystals.
From cubes and olive shapes to complex octahedra, the international team of researchers say that these nanocrystals have unique optical and electronic properties, which can be used in a variety of technologies. Dr Bo Hou, Senior Lecturer at Cardiff University’s School of Physics and Astronomy who led the study, said: “Quantum dots have the potential to transform many industries because of the infinite efficiency they offer. Our study is a significant step in the adoption of quantum dot technology in a wide range of energy and light applications.”
“So these technologies are really the future and our role in developing their applications is really exciting.”
Working in a state-of-the-art laboratory at Cardiff University’s new Translational Research Center (TRH), the team grew compound semiconductor nanocrystals in a solvent and monitored their development in real-time using simulations. Computers and microscope technology are powerful. Dr. Hou added: “Semiconductor growth and melting is our chosen option because of its small carbon footprint, high yield potential and economic benefits over high temperature and low demand conditions, Need for traditional production.
“It also means that we can study the effect of solvent polarity on the shape of the nanocrystals, which may provide a way to stabilize the polar regions in further research.”
The group is currently developing image sensors with low carbon light sources that will allow companies to implement quantum dot nanocrystals into their technology to increase their resolution and power.
Source: Cardiff University
