Greener process to synthesize water-soluble Mn²⁺-doped CdSSe(ZnS) core(shell) nanocrystals for ratiometric temperature sensing, nanocrystals, and methods implementing nanocrystals

摘要

Novel Mn²⁺-doped quantum dots are provided. These Mn²⁺-doped quantum dots exhibit excellent temperature sensitivity in both organic solvents and water-based solutions. Methods of preparing the Mn²⁺-doped quantum dots are provided. The Mn²⁺-doped quantum dots may be prepared via a stepwise procedure using air-stable and inexpensive chemicals. The use of air-stable chemicals can significantly reduce the cost of synthesis, chemical storage, and the risk associated with handling flammable chemicals. Methods of temperature sensing using Mn²⁺-doped quantum dots are provided. The stepwise procedure provides the ability to tune the temperature-sensing properties to satisfy specific needs for temperature sensing applications. Water solubility may be achieved by passivating the Mn²⁺-doped quantum dots, allowing the Mn²⁺-doped quantum dots to probe the fluctuations of local temperature in biological environments.