Off

Off

In a breakthrough for nanotechnology, researchers have discovered a new way to synthesize quantum dot nanocrystals using molten salt as a medium. Traditional methods to create these materials required organic solvents, which cannot withstand the high temperatures needed for certain semiconductor materials, particularly those combining elements from groups III and V on the periodic table. By using superheated molten sodium chloride, scientists were able to synthesize these semiconductor nanocrystals, paving the way for improved applications in fields like quantum computing, LED lighting, and solar technology.

Led by a team from the University of Chicago and collaborating institutions, including RASEI Fellows Sadegh Yazdi and Gordana Dukovic, this novel method also opens new avenues for materials science by enabling the synthesis of previously inaccessible nanocrystal compositions. The technique addresses long-standing challenges by providing a high-temperature environment without degrading the materials. Researchers hope this advance will contribute to new types of devices and materials, marking a significant expansion in the range of accessible quantum dot technologies.

For a more information, please see the  press release from The University of Chicago. 

Off

Off

Several RASEI Fellows and members of the NSF Science and Technology Center for Integration of Modern Optoelectronic Materials on Demand (IMOD) were involved in the development of successful proposals for NSF Partnerships for Research and Education in Materials (PREM) grants.

These grants will enable RASEI members to form closer partnerships with researchers at Fort Lewis College (Durango, CO), Norfolk State University (Norfolk, VA), and UC Merced (Merced, CA). These projects will expand participation, provide access to materials and facilities and provide support for training, research exchanges, meetings and workshops.

Two proposals were funded. The Venture for Innovation in Self-Assembly and Integration of Optoelectronic Nanostructures (VISION) focuses on a partnership between IMOD (which includes RASEI Fellows Seth Marder, Mike Toney, Gordana Dukovic, David Jonas and Matt Beard), and UC Merced. The Partnership for Education and Advancement of Quantum and nano-Sciences (PEAQS) brings together the IMOD team with researchers from Fort Lewis College and Norfolk State University.

While their scientific and technical foci are different, these collaborations have shared missions of developing programs that cultivate student potential in STEM, offering enriched research opportunities, interdisciplinary scientific collaborations, pedagogical development and inclusive mentoring.

Check out more about each the programs by reading their abstract and checking out their websites. 

Off

Off

Off

Off

Off

Off