White-light-emitting CdSe quantum dots synthesized at room temperature

White-light-emitting CdSe quantum dots (QDs) were synthesized at room temperature (RT, similar to 23 degrees C) using an organometallic colloidal growth process. These QDs are characterized by high and reproducible quantum yields (Phi(PL)similar to 0.4) as well as by unusual spectral broadening [full width at half maximum (FWHM) similar to 150 nm) despite of their observed size monodispersity. Surface functionalization of these quantum dots using mercaptosuccinic acid made them soluble in water. A change of color together with an enhancement in Phi(PL) was observed upon surface functionalization. (c) 2006 American Institute of Physics.