Reverse micelle-derived Cu-doped Zn(1-x)Cd(x)S quantum dots and their core/shell structure.

Reverse micelle chemistry-derived Cu-doped Zn(1-x)Cd(x)S quantum dots (QDs) with the composition (x) of 0, 0.5, 1 are reported. The Cu emission was found to be dependent on the host composition of QDs. While a dim green/orange emission was observed from ZnS:Cu QDs, a relatively strong red emission could be obtained from CdS:Cu and Zn(0.5)Cd(0.5)S:Cu QDs. Luminescent properties of undoped QDs versus Cu-doped ones and quantum yields of alloyed ZnCdS versus CdS QDs are compared and discussed. To enhance Cu-related red emission of CdS:Cu and Zn(0.5)Cd(0.5)S:Cu core QDs, core/shell structured QDs with a wider band gap of ZnS shell are also demonstrated.