Net energy up-conversion processes in CdSe/CdS (core/shell) quantum dots: A possible pathway towards optical cooling

An investigation of the possibility of optical refrigeration (OR) on zinc-blende cadmium selenide/cadmium sulfide (CdSe/CdS) core/shell structure quantum dots (QDs) has been carried out. Quality samples were synthesized in our laboratory, and significant energy up-conversion photoluminescence (UCPL) was observed in these samples, showing the potential of generating net cooling effects. To better understand and predict the UCPL characteristics of the QDs, a semiempirical model has been developed, showing good agreement with our experimental results. The model takes into account the corresponding quantum yield and cooling efficiency, predicting the possibility of realizing optical refrigeration on a CdSe QD system.

Automated summary

This study investigated the possibility of optical refrigeration on zinc-blende CdSe/CdS core/shell structure quantum dots and developed a semiempirical model to predict the feasibility of optical refrigeration on a CdSe QD system.