Highlights on advances in SnO₂ quantum dots: insights into synthesis strategies, modifications and applications

Abstract

The applications of SnO 2 are benefited from its nanostructure with different sizes and novel morphologies. When the size of nanoparticles reduces to 1-10 nm, the unique physical and chemical properties will make prominent. SnO 2 quantum dots (QDs), a type of zero-dimensional ultrasmall SnO 2 nanomaterials with a size in 1-10 nm, have displayed unique physical and chemical properties, which are different from those of their larger-sized ones. This review summarizes various synthesis strategies of SnO 2 QDs and the methods of their modifications, discusses their applications in lithium-ion batteries, photocatalysis, and gas sensors. These applications profit from the characteristic properties inherent in SnO 2 QDs. IMPACT STATEMENT This paper provides a comprehensive understanding for fabricating SnO 2 quantum dots and their modifications via various methods for the applications in lithium-ion batteries, photocatalytic degradations, and solid-state gas sensors.

Rapid Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of SnO2 Quantum Dots for Efficient Planar Perovskite Solar Cells

“…22 However, the adopted synthesis approaches are rather time consuming (several hours), and the removal of additives requires the fine control of the whole process, significantly limiting its large-scale fabrication. Differently, the microwave-assisted synthesis, with an alternative energy input source, is a rapid, uniform, and facile technique to obtain SnO 2 QDs, 23,24 which has been widely applied in the field of photocatalysts 25,26 and sensors 27,28 but seldom in photovoltaics. 9,14 Herein, with the utilization of microwave-assisted solution process, we have developed a super rapid synthesis of SnO 2 QDs without adding any additives.…”

Resistive-Based Gas Sensors Using Quantum Dots: A Review

“…The quantum size effects appear when the size of the SnO 2 nanoparticles (NPs) is about 1-10 nm [51]. Du et al [52] prepared SnO 2 QDs via a hydrothermal route.…”

Metal Oxide Quantum Dots Embedded in Silica Matrices Made by Flame Spray Pyrolysis

“… 16 The two most major obstacles faced by quantum dots preventing the commercialization of many of these applications are their mechanical, thermal, and chemical instability and the lack of viable large-scale production. 17 − 19 …”

“… 18 For example, embedding quantum dots in an amorphous carbon matrix counteracts the aggregation and volume swelling challenges encountered during lithiation in battery applications. 17 Ge et al 20 also embedded CuO quantum dots (1–2 nm) in a silica matrix, which showed improved thermal stability. Further, these amorphous matrices improve wetting and dispersion that are critical to photocatalytic activity.…”