Encapsulation of CdTe Semiconductor Nanocrystals in Glass Matrix by a Sol-Gel Process

摘要

We describe the synthesis of glass incorporating photoluminescent semiconductor nanocrystals through a sol-gel processing and discuss the characterization of their properties. CdTe nanocrystals with a mean size between 3 and 6 nm are embedded in a glass matrix made from silane coupling agent functionalized with amine groups. The synthesis process was optimized to avoid nanocrystals agglomeration and to prevent surface deterioration of nanocrystals. The nanocrystals embedded in the glass matrix remained almost unmodified during preparation. Their photoluminescent spectra were about 41-65 nm in width at half maximum and can be tuned from green to red with luminescent efficiency up to 41%. The nanocrystals embedded in glass exhibit enhanced long-term stability over several months keeping. They also display high stability even after heat treatment.