Synthesis of CdZnTe Quantum Dots in the Aqueous Phase by Microwave Irradiation

Abstract

CdZnTe quantum dots were synthesized in the aqueous phase by microwave irradiation using 3-mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) as a stabilizer. Zn(NO3)(2), Cd(NO3)(2), and NaHTe were used as Cd, Zn, and Te precursors, respectively. The preparation of CdZnTe quantum dots was confirmed by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The effects of pH, Zn/Cd molar ratio, and reaction time on the optical properties of the quantum dots were investigated. A strong fluorescence emission peak was observed from the quantum dots prepared using weak acidic conditions and a reaction time of 24 h. As the Zn/Cd molar ratio increased, the fluorescence intensity increased, and with increasing reaction time, both the photoluminescence and absorbance spectra of the quantum dots showed a red shift.