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Quantum Dots in India: Cadmium-Free vs CdSe, How to Choose

Quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor nanocrystals whose emission colour depends on their size. They are used in displays, LEDs, bio-imaging, sensing and solar research. Indian researchers can choose from several families of quantum dots, each with trade-offs. This guide from Aritech Nanomaterials India summarises them.

Main types of quantum dots

Type Strengths Considerations
CdSe/ZnS core-shell Very bright, narrow emission, well characterised Contains cadmium; restricted in many consumer products
InP/ZnS Cadmium-free, good colour purity Somewhat broader emission than CdSe
Perovskite (CsPbX3) Very high quantum yield, easily tuned Contains lead; sensitive to moisture
Carbon and graphene QDs Low toxicity, water-soluble, low cost Broader emission, lower colour purity

Key specifications

  • Emission peak (nm): sets the colour; smaller dots emit at shorter wavelengths.
  • FWHM: the width of the emission peak; narrower means purer colour.
  • Quantum yield: how efficiently absorbed light is converted to emitted light.
  • Ligand and solvent: oleate- or amine-capped dots disperse in toluene or hexane; functionalised dots disperse in water.
  • Concentration: usually given in mg/mL.

Choosing by application

  • Displays and LEDs: InP/ZnS or perovskite for cadmium-free, high colour purity
  • Bio-imaging: water-soluble, functionalised QDs; carbon QDs where low toxicity matters most
  • Photovoltaics and photodetectors: lead or cadmium chalcogenide QDs, perovskite QDs
  • Sensors and teaching labs: carbon or graphene QDs

Storage

Store quantum dot solutions sealed, in the dark and at the temperature stated on the data sheet, often refrigerated. Avoid repeated opening in humid air, especially for perovskite QDs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cadmium-free quantum dots as good as CdSe?

Modern InP/ZnS quantum dots approach CdSe performance for many uses, though CdSe still offers the narrowest emission. Perovskite QDs offer very high brightness but are less stable.

Can quantum dots be supplied in water?

Yes. Water-soluble quantum dots with functional ligands are available, as are carbon and graphene quantum dots, which are naturally water-dispersible.

Do you deliver quantum dots across India?

Yes. Aritech supplies quantum dots across India with an INR quotation, GST invoice, COA and SDS, packed as the data sheet requires.

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Buy in India from Aritech

Aritech Nanomaterials India (Aritech Chemazone Pvt. Ltd., Kurukshetra) is the authorized Indian distributor of Nanochemazone® Canada. Send your product, quantity and delivery city to sales@chemazone.in or use our quotation form for an INR quotation with GST invoice.