Credit: UbiQD
What are quantum dots?
Quantum dots were first theorized in the 1930s, when physicists predicted that shrinking materials to extremely small scales could fundamentally change how electrons behave.
Quantum dots are nanocrystals — typically just a few atoms across — made from semiconductors, metals or insulators. At this tiny scale, electrons behave according to quantum mechanical rules, acting like both particles and waves.
By simply changing the size or composition of a quantum dot, researchers can precisely control the color of light it emits or absorbs. This tunability makes them essential for light-based technologies, like displays, sensors, imaging devices and solar panels.
From theory to breakthrough
NSF investments were instrumental in the development of quantum dots.
In the early 1980s, Alexei Ekimov provided the first experimental demonstration of size-dependent quantum effects by embedding copper chloride nanocrystals in glass and showing that their size changed the glass's color.
Several years later, Louis Brus was the first to demonstrate size-dependent quantum effects in particles floating freely in a fluid. Their stable, solution-based semiconductor nanocrystals were easier to study and manipulate than previous nanocrystals.
Then, in 1993, Moungi Bawendi pioneered a reliable chemical method to synthesize high-quality, size-controlled quantum dots in bulk, enabling their manufacturing and widespread use in research labs and emerging technologies.
NSF supported both Brus and Bawendi throughout their careers, including early-career fellowships and research grants.
Ekimov, Brus and Bawendi were awarded the 2023 Nobel Prize in chemistry for their groundbreaking contributions to the discovery and development of quantum dots, transforming a long-standing theory into one of today's most promising technologies.
Quantum dots now drive a $4 billion industry with applications ranging from displays and medical imaging to quantum computing.
Changing the world dot by dot
Lighting up the screen
In collaboration with Bawendi, NSF-supported research teams developed quantum dot-light emitting devices (QD-LEDs) with precise color control.
Smarter greenhouse roofs
NSF-funded company UbiQD is using quantum dots to turn standard greenhouse film into sunlight-optimizing material that's more durable, less toxic and more cost-effective for farmers to use.
Flexible power
With support from NSF, researchers developed spray-casting methods to manufacture flexible quantum dot solar cells, paving the way for lightweight, low-cost solar panels that can be deployed on curved, portable or remote surfaces.
Next-gen diagnostics
An NSF CAREER award is enabling the development of carbon-based quantum dots that can be detected by both light and magnetic signals.
This dual-mode sensing will make quantum dots powerful tools for detecting chemicals or tracking molecules associated with cancers and other illnesses inside the body through non-invasive measures.
Real-time cancer check
America's Seed Fund, powered by NSF, supported Lumicell Inc. (co-founded by Bawendi) in developing a fluorescence-guided imaging system that helps surgeons detect cancer cells left behind during lumpectomies, potentially reducing the need for follow-up surgeries.
Faster discovery
With NSF support, researchers created SmartDope, an autonomous system that can identify how to synthesize the best-performing quantum dots for solar and photonic devices. Thanks to SmartDope, a process that once took years now takes just hours or days, accelerating the development of next-generation materials.
Lighting up innovation
NSF's early and sustained investment in quantum dot research has helped uncover their unique ability to control light and energy at the nanoscale.
As researchers continue to advance synthesis methods, modeling tools and real-world applications, quantum dots will continue to shape innovation across electronics, photonics, energy, imaging, quantum computing and more.