Optimization of Nontoxic CuAlS₂/ZnS Quantum Dots
Cameron Krolik, Fay Harris
Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
Faculty Supervisor: Michael Enright
Quantum dots (QDs) have been researched as a versatile semiconductor for use in many applications including electronics, bio-imaging, and solar energy conversion and are often cost-efficient, surface tunability for use in many solvents, and diversity of shapes and sizes allows for a wide range of applications. A large focus for quantum dots has been on using visible light to drive reactions in a process called photocatalysis. We are currently investigating the synthesis of CuAlS2/ZnS QDs, and we theorize that for a high turnover rate, these nanoparticles must be structurally sound. A drawback of many core-shell quantum dot systems like CdSe QDs is the suboptimal electron band alignment between the two materials limiting catalytic performance, unlike the small bandgap of CuAlS2/ZnS QDs. Our project investigates the catalysis of lignin, a complex organic polymer in organic material that can be broken down into high-value small organic molecules with a C-O bond cleavage. This allows for the breakdown of organic material into compounds that would otherwise be derived from petroleum, allowing for less reliance on fossil fuels. The optimization of the synthesis procedure would produce higher-quality QDs, allowing for a more effective electron transfer from the quantum dot to the reaction, creating higher yield.