Aqueous synthesis of CdTe quantum dot using dithiol-functionalized ionic liquid

We report on an aqueous synthesis of cadmium telluride (CdTe) nanocrystals by using dithiol-functionalized ionic liquids (dTFILs). The dTFILs were designed to have dithiol and vinylimidazolium functional groups and used as a ligand molecule of CdTe quantum dot (QD) to utilize the bidendate chelate interaction afforded by the dithiol groups of dTFILs. The photoluminescence quantum yield of dTFIL-capped CdTe QDs reached up to ∼40, and their luminescent property was maintained for 8 weeks, suggesting an improved stability in water phase. This approach will provide a new synthetic route to the water soluble QDs.