Quantum Dot Photoactivation: Mechanisms of Photostability of InP/ZnS Core/Shell Quantum Dots

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dc.contributor.advisorBelinda, Heyne
dc.contributor.authorSikkema, Toni
dc.contributor.committeememberShi, Yujun
dc.contributor.committeememberAnikovskiy, Max
dc.contributor.committeememberWieser, Michael
dc.date2023-11
dc.date.accessioned2023-05-31T18:44:22Z
dc.date.available2023-05-31T18:44:22Z
dc.date.issued2023-05-08
dc.description.abstractQuantum dots are semiconductor nanocrystals that exhibit unique optical characteristics such as size tunability and broad absorption with applications in biomedical imaging and display technologies. Cadmium-based quantum dots have been widely used as the standard in commercial applications, but their toxic nature poses a significant challenge that needs to be addressed. Of particular interest is the study of indium-based quantum dots, due to their similar optical properties and lower toxicity. Before indium containing quantum dots can be used in optical and biological applications, we need to understand the complicated mechanisms behind their photostability. It has been observed that quantum dots can behave in unpredictable manners in response to light absorption, hindering their development. In this thesis, we add to the body of work surrounding the photostability of indium-based quantum dots, with a focus on their behavior in aqueous environment which is of relevance to their application in biological systems. We studied the photostability of InP/ZnS core/shell quantum dots in organic solvents where they are synthesized and expanded into aqueous environments through modification of the surface chemistry. Our findings show that the behavior of these quantum dots under light exposure depends on the solvent, presence of oxygen, and pH. We have also revealed that consideration of the surface ligand is important in the design of quantum dots. These results suggest that the interaction between quantum dots and light is complex and multi-mechanistic. While this study sheds light on the chemical interactions involved, further research is still necessary.
dc.identifier.citationSikkema, T. (2023). Quantum dot photoactivation: mechanisms of photostability of InP/ZnS core/shell quantum dots (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca.
dc.identifier.urihttps://hdl.handle.net/1880/116585
dc.identifier.urihttps://dx.doi.org/10.11575/PRISM/41428
dc.language.isoen
dc.publisher.facultyGraduate Studies
dc.publisher.institutionUniversity of Calgary
dc.rightsUniversity of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.
dc.subjectQuantum Dot
dc.subjectPhotoactivation
dc.subjectPhotostability
dc.subjectNanoparticle
dc.subjectPhotobleaching
dc.subjectLigand
dc.subject.classificationChemistry--Physical
dc.titleQuantum Dot Photoactivation: Mechanisms of Photostability of InP/ZnS Core/Shell Quantum Dots
dc.typemaster thesis
thesis.degree.disciplineChemistry
thesis.degree.grantorUniversity of Calgary
thesis.degree.nameMaster of Science (MSc)
ucalgary.thesis.accesssetbystudentI require a thesis withhold – I need to delay the release of my thesis due to a patent application, and other reasons outlined in the link above. I have/will need to submit a thesis withhold application.
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