Figure 4.

Quantum dot (QD) size minimization by use of multidentate ligands that contain a mixture of amine and thiol functional groups. (a) The multidentate ligands can wrap around the QD in a closed monolayer conformation, in contrast to the bulky bilayer structure of amphiphilic polymers. (b) A balance of thiol (−SH) and amine (−NH²) functional groups is needed for stable multidentate ligand binding. Abbreviations: DIC, diisopropylcarbodiimide; DMSO, dimethylsulfoxide; FMOC, fluorenylmethyloxycarbonyl; NHS, N-hydroxysuccinimide. Adapted with permission from Reference 47.