About Quantum Dots

Quantum dots (QDs) are novel semiconductor nanocrystals that emit light in varying wavelegths across the visible spectrum depending on their size, shape, and composition. These" tunable" optical properties are advantageous for solid state lighting, electronic devices, solar cells, laser diodes, medical imaging devices, and numerous other optoelectronic applications. Employing quantum dots as sources of light improves the performance and energy efficiency of high-resolution displays in devices such as smartphones and high-definition television screens.

Quantum dots can be manufactured in various forms. Core-type quantum dots are composed of a single material, typically a metallic chalcogenide such as cadmium telluride or lead sulfide. Core-shell quantum dots (CSQDs, or core-shell semiconducting nanocrystals, CSSNCs) consist of a core-type material encapsulated within a second semiconductor material with a higher band gap. These hybrid particles such as cadmium selenide-zinc sulfide exhibit an improved quantum yield over single material quantum dots. Alloyed quantum dots are also composed of multiple materials, but in a homogeneous mixture rather than distinct regions. The combination of two different semiconductors with different band gaps imparts new properties distinct properties to the particles that are distinct from the original materials.

American Elements manufactures core-type, core-shell, and alloyed quantum dots from both "traditional" materials like cadmium selenide and novel ones like graphene. Our tightly controlled production methods yield materials with uniform particle sizes, morphologies, and compositions, allowing us to tune the emission colors to match the specifications of our customers.

Our quantum dot products are available as dispersions in both aqueous or organic solvents and can be produced in doped, functionalized, or coated forms. American Elements maintains industrial scale production for all its nanoscale products and will execute non-disclosure or confidentiality agreements to protect customer know-how.