Design of cross-linked polyisobutylene matrix for efficient encapsulation of quantum dots

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Anatol Prudnikau - , Chair of Physical Chemistry, TUD Dresden University of Technology (Author)
  • Dmitriy I. Shiman - , Belarusian State University (Author)
  • Evgenii Ksendzov - , TUD Dresden University of Technology, Belarusian State University (Author)
  • Jonathon Harwell - , University of St Andrews (Author)
  • Ekaterina A. Bolotina - , TUD Dresden University of Technology, Belarusian State University (Author)
  • Pavel A. Nikishau - , Belarusian State University (Author)
  • Sergei V. Kostjuk - , Belarusian State University, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Author)
  • Ifor D.W. Samuel - , University of St Andrews (Author)
  • Vladimir Lesnyak - , Chair of Physical Chemistry, TUD Dresden University of Technology (Author)

Abstract

Photoluminescent quantum dots (QDs) are a prominent example of nanomaterials used in practical applications, especially in light-emitting and light-converting devices. Most of the current applications of QDs require formation of thin films or their incorporation in solid matrices. The choice of an appropriate host material capable of preventing QDs from degradation and developing a process of uniform incorporation of QDs in the matrix have become essential scientific and technological challenges. In this work, we developed a method of uniform incorporation of Cu-Zn-In-S (CZIS) QDs into a highly protective cross-linked polyisobutylene (PIB) matrix with high chemical resistance and low gas permeability. Our approach involves the synthesis of a methacrylate-terminated three-arm star-shaped PIB oligomeric precursor capable of quick formation of a robust 3D polymer network upon exposure to UV-light, as well as the design of a special ligand introducing short PIB chains onto the surface of the QDs, thus providing compatibility with the matrix. The obtained cross-linked QDs-in-polymer composites underwent a complex photostability test in air and under vacuum as well as a chemical stability test. These tests found that CZIS QDs in a cross-linked PIB matrix demonstrated excellent photo- and chemical stability when compared to identical QDs in widely used polyacrylate-based matrices. These results make the composites developed excellent materials for the fabrication of robust, stable and durable transparent light conversion layers.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1443-1454
Number of pages12
JournalNanoscale advances
Volume3
Issue number5
Publication statusPublished - 7 Mar 2021
Peer-reviewedYes