Indium phosphide magic-sized clusters: chemistry and applications

Abstract

AbstractThis paper reviews developments in the synthesis of InP quantum dots (QDs) and research on InP magic-sized clusters (MSCs), which occur as intermediates during the growth of InP QDs. We classify research on InP MSCs into (1) synthesis and characterization and (2) applications. Several InP MSCs have been developed using low reaction temperatures or strong binding ligands. InP MSCs passivated by carboxylate, amine or phosphonate ligands and InP MSCs that incorporate heterogeneous atoms (Cl or Zn) have been synthesized. We also review tools to characterize MSCs and show the intermediate characteristics of InP MSCs. InP MSCs have been used as synthesis precursors for spherical InP QDs and nonspherical InP nanostructures, such as elongated, branched, and hyperbranched/dendrimer-like morphologies. We also present MSC-mediated growth mechanisms involving fragments, monomers or other nanoclusters. Research on the chemistry and applications of InP MSCs has uncovered the formation process of InP nanomaterials. Developments in the luminescent properties of InP MSCs, InP QDs and elongated InP nanostructures would be useful in displays.