Application to Electroluminescence Devices with Dimethylformamide-Stabilized Niobium Oxide Nanoparticles

This study reports niobium nanoparticles (NPs) as quantum dot phosphors. NPs that exhibit intense fluorescence were synthesized by liquid-phase reduction, using dimethylformamide (DMF) as a protectant and a reductant. Monodisperse NPs were prepared by adding trimethylsilyl chloride. Dynamic light scattering and scanning transmission electron microscopy confirmed the synthesis of NPs of <10 nm in diameter. X-ray photoelectron microscopy and X-ray absorption spectroscopy measurements indicate that the valence of the Nb NPs was reduced by the additive compared with that of the precursor. A device fabricated from the NPs emitted light, and the emission spectrum in the visible-light region was obtained.

Automated summary

This study reports the use of niobium nanoparticles as quantum dot phosphors. The nanoparticles were synthesized by liquid-phase reduction, and their intense fluorescence was observed. Monodisperse particles with a diameter of less than 10 nm were prepared by adding trimethylsilyl chloride. X-ray photoelectron microscopy and X-ray absorption spectroscopy measurements confirmed the reduction of the valence of niobium nanoparticles compared to the precursor. A device fabricated from these nanoparticles emitted light in the visible-light region.