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Polymer-assisted synthesis of water-soluble PbSe quantum dots

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Abstract

Stable PbSe quantum dots were synthesised in water-based media using poly(amidehydroxyurethane) water-soluble polymer. The polymer acts like a precursor carrier, blocks the particles aggregation and assures their solubility. Atomic force microscopy data show that the particle radius is smaller than the Bohr radius of PbSe. Interactions studies, performed by Fourier transform IR spectroscopy, show that the quantum dots are capped with poly(amidehydroxyurethane). The proposed synthesis was realised in the absence of any organic solvent. As a result, the produced particles have good water solubility, stability and good arguments to be biologically compatible.

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Acknowledgement

This study was financially supported by the CNCSIS Type A Nr. 1149/28/2006 scientific research project in the frame of the Romanian MEC Programme.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Physics, “Al. I. Cuza” University, Carol I, Nr. 11A, Iasi, 700506, Romania

    V. Melnig

  2. Faculty of Chemistry, “Al. I. Cuza” University, Carol I, Nr. 11A, Iasi, 700506, Romania

    M.-O. Apostu

  3. Faculty of Chemistry, “Gh. Asachi” University, D. Mangeron, Nr. 71 A, 700050, Iasi, Romania

    N. Foca

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  1. V. Melnig
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  2. M.-O. Apostu
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Correspondence to V. Melnig.

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Melnig, V., Apostu, MO. & Foca, N. Polymer-assisted synthesis of water-soluble PbSe quantum dots. J Nanopart Res 10 (Suppl 1), 171–177 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11051-008-9449-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11051-008-9449-1

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