Relations of exciton dynamics in quantum dots to photoluminescence, lasing, and energy harvesting

For the past three decades, the field of quantum dot research has been expanding enormously, owing to the unique dynamics of charge carriers in these tiny crystals. This review provides an overview of charge carrier dynamics in photoactivated quantum dots. Specifically, it deals with the exciton fine structure, multiple exciton generation and the origin and control of photoluminescence intermittency in cadmium and lead chalcogenide quantum dots. These properties are discussed within the framework of spectroscopy and microscopy of single and multiple exciton states. Finally, this review touches on the photoluminescence- and multiple exciton-based applications of quantum dots, such as lasing and high efficiency solar cells. (C) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.