In situ synthesis of cadmium selenide quantum dots in solvent-free polymer templates demonstrating stable photoluminescence in a harsh atmosphere†

Abstract

Colloidal quantum dots are believed to be epoch-making nanometer-sized materials, excellent as light convertors. However, their low chemical stability causes strong photoluminescence quenching in hash atmospheres, such as high humidity, oxygen and heat, which limits their practical applications. Thus, the as-synthesized QDs can be protected from aggressive conditions by encapsulating them into an appropriate polymeric matrix. However, this additional encapsulation stage complicates the whole technology. Here, we demonstrate a direct in situ synthesis of CdSe QDs in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) solid templates pre-formed through both spin coating and inkjet printing technologies. Uniform CdSe QDs in solid halogenated polymer templates have been formed at a mild temperature in air in the absence of additional surface ligands. The in situ synthesized CdSe QDs in a polymer matrix demonstrate capability for direct multiple pre-forming performance, a stable fluorescence in saturated water vapor at 60 °C for 30 days, harsh acid (0.5 M) and alkali (1 M) media, or ethanol for 7 days as well. Our results provide a general strategy to produce highly environmentally stable QD-containing hybrid materials for broad practical applications.