Synthesis, characterization and bio-evaluation of core-shell QDs with ZnSe, CdS and CdSe combinations

Present article describes one-pot, two-stage, in-situ controlled atmosphere method for synthesis of core-shell quantum dots (QDs) comprising of ZnSe, CdS and CdSe combinations e.g. CdS/CdSe, ZnSe/CdS and ZnSe/CdSe. The present method emphasizes on creating an effective surface passivation of core as well as formation of passivated shell via utilization of cyclo-octeno-1, 2, 3-selenadiazole as a precursor for selenium. Synthesis of ZnSe/CdS was compared by using two different selenium precursors viz cyclo-octeno-1, 2, 3-selenadiazole (C8-SDZ) and cyclo-hexeno-1, 2, 3-selenadiazole (C6-SDZ). Optical properties (UV-Visible and PL spectroscopy) indicate narrow peak width with band gap ranging in between 2.30 eV to 2.56 eV. The XRD analysis revealed the formation of respective core-shell QDs with zinc blende crystal structure. TEM analysis showed formation of spherical shaped core-shell QDs with lattice spacing of 0.35 nm due to presence of (111) crystal plane. By virtue of the excellent o