Quantum Dot Sensors

“This book provides very interesting insights into quantum dots technology, discussing, with adequate detail, the distinct synthetic approaches and functionalisation strategies, the importance of surface passivation and modification to guaranteeing suitable stability, biocompatibility, and reactivity, and the effect of the size, shape, and composition of quantum dots on their unique photochemical properties.

Special attention is devoted to the optoelectronic properties of quantum dots, in particular how these can be exploited to achieve sensing involving electron and energy transfer-based mechanisms, and to the techniques that can be used to monitor these transfer processes. The toxicology of these nanomaterials is also discussed, mostly with regard to oxidative toxicity, either directly or on generation of reactive oxygen species.

Although covering a broad range of topics related to the preparation, properties, and applications of quantum dots, similar to, for example, Semiconductor  Nanocrystal Quantum Dots: Synthesis, Assembly, Spectroscopy and Applications, by Andrey Rogach (Springer, 2010), or Nanocrystal Quantum Dots, 2nd ed., by Victor Klimov (CRC Press, 2010), this book is not entirely devoted to exhaustive analysis of such issues and can, therefore, be regarded as more accessible or reader-friendly; it is, therefore, a valuable resource for researchers new to this field.

The book provides valuable information on semiconductor nanocrystals, describing in detail noteworthy developments in synthetic approaches, surface manipulation of nanoparticles, characterisation of optical and electrochemical properties, and implementation of sensing schemes based on electron-transfer and energy-transfer processes for multiple analyte determination, typically with biological applications. The chapters are attractively organised, and all reviewed topics are meticulously referenced. Although accessible for beginners, this book could also be very useful for experienced researchers, because it clearly emphasises crucial aspects of the material presented and avoids redundant description.”

~Prof. João L. M. Santos, University of Porto, Portugal

“Well-known authors from across the world take us all the way from synthesis to applications. The chapters on electrochemical properties and different biosensing modalities are particularly relevant to cutting-edge research. All in all, a well-written, thorough, up-to-date, and quite useful reference for the lab.”

~Dr. Igor Medintz, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, USA

“In this book written and edited by renowned experts, the reader will find a very useful overview of semiconductor quantum dot sensor technology and its applications. The work provides a lot of interesting information for those who are using quantum dots as well as those who want to start taking advantage of the unique properties of quantum dots for biological and chemical sensing.”

~Prof. Niko Hildebrandt, Université Paris-Sud, France