Quantum dot phthalocyanine non-covalent assemblies – A review

Quantum dots (QDs) are an important class of nanomaterials for the current development of various optical devices. The use of such semiconductor nanocrystals as functional units in hybrid materials of higher complexity allows exploring new properties that result from the synergistic conjugation of the various components. In this review, we provide a general overview of the present status and prospects of research on non-covalent assembly of colloidal QDs of binary semiconductors and phthalocyanines (Pcs). The main synthetic approaches used in the surface functionalization of QDs with neutral, cationic and anionic Pcs through non-covalent approaches are highlighted. Studies on the properties and potential applications based on energy transfer processes occurring between the inorganic/organic components are reviewed here. As in other areas of seminal research in QDs, the system of choice has been cadmium containing QDs, probably due to established knowledge on synthesis methods and size-dependent properties of these materials. However, it is expected that this topic will be extended to other nanodispersed systems, whose technological potential is not limited by toxicity issues.