Colloidal Zn‐based Semiconductor Nanocrystals: Recent Advances and Challenges

Abstract In the past decades, benefitting from the development of synthesis methodology, Cd‐based semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs) have been extensively studied and their structure‐dependent properties further inspired diverse applications. However, the high toxicity of Cd in Cd‐based semiconductor NCs significantly limits their widespread applications. Colloidal Zn‐based semiconductor NCs are one of the most promising candidates for Cd‐based semiconductor NCs attributed to their low toxicity, creating high‐band gap systems with excellent optoelectronic properties. Herein, an overview of the synthesis, structure engineering, and optoelectronic applications of colloidal Zn‐based semiconductor NCs are provided. In the first section, the typical growth mechanisms are introduced, including oriented attachment, templated‐assisted growth, and ripening. Then, structure engineering, such as core–shell structure, heterostructure, alloying, and doping, of Zn‐based NCs are summarized. Simultaneously, an insight into various applications related to these structures of Zn‐based NCs are given, including quantum dots light emitting diodes (QLEDs), catalysts, biological‐application, sensors, and solar cells. Finally, although huge progress in both synthesis methodology and applications of colloidal Zn‐based semiconductor NCs have been achieved, some issues still hinder the further development of Zn‐based semiconductor NCs. Then in the last section, it is elaborated on the challenges and provides the possible solutions to tackle these challenges.