Quantum dot-block copolymer hybrids with improved properties and their application to quantum dot light-emitting devices

ACS Nano. 2009 May 26;3(5):1063-8. doi: 10.1021/nn800790s.

Abstract

To combine the optical properties of CdSe@ZnS quantum dots (QDs) with the electrical properties of semiconducting polymers, we prepared QD/polymer hybrids by grafting a block copolymer (BCP) containing thiol-anchoring moieties (poly(para-methyl triphenylamine-b-cysteamine acrylamide)) onto the surfaces of QDs through the ligand exchange procedure. The prepared QD/polymer hybrids possess improved processability such as enhanced solubility in various organic solvents as well as the film formation properties along with the improved colloidal stability derived from the grafted polymer shells. We also demonstrated light-emitting diodes based on QD/polymer hybrids, exhibiting the improved device performance (i.e., 3-fold increase in the external quantum efficiency) compared with the devices prepared by pristine (unmodified) QDs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Crystallization / methods*
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Lighting / instrumentation*
  • Lighting / methods
  • Macromolecular Substances / chemistry
  • Materials Testing
  • Molecular Conformation
  • Nanotechnology / instrumentation*
  • Polymers / chemistry*
  • Quantum Dots*
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Macromolecular Substances
  • Polymers