Enhancing FRET Efficiency through Synergistic Influences of Surfactants and Quantum Dots on Zinc Quinolate Complex-Dye Interactions

Herein, we present a pioneering approach to enhancing Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) efficiency through the synergistic integration of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) surfactants and ZnS quantum dots (QDs) within a zinc quinolate complex (ZQC)-dye (Rhodamine B: RhB) system. FRET efficiency is elevated from 13.1% to 49% with surfactants alone and further to an impressive 93.6% with the addition of QDs. This advancement highlights the vital role of chemical environment modifications in regulating energy transfer mechanisms. Employing nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy alongside density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the study provides comprehensive insights into molecular interactions, electronic behavior, and structural transformations driving enhanced energy transfer. The findings set a benchmark for high-performance FRET systems, offering a robust platform for applications in bioimaging, biosensors, optoelectronics, and nanophotonics. By blending experimental innovation with theoretical validation, this work paves the way for transformative advancements in optical- and nanomaterial-based technologies.