Quantum dots@layered double hydroxides: Emerging nanocomposites for multifaceted applications
Garima Rathee, Antonio Puertas‐Segura, J. S. Blair, Jyotsna Rathee, Tzanko Tzanov
Abstract
Nanomaterials have fascinated experts across numerous fields owing to their intriguing properties and wide-ranging applications. Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and quantum dots (QDs) are fascinating nanomaterials renowned for their versatility in various consumer products. LDHs are multifunctional two-dimensional nanostructures, whereas QDs are semiconductor nanocrystals with exceptional electronic features. This review explores the synergistic combination of LDHs and QDs in QDs@LDH nanocomposites exploitable across numerous applications. Diverse technologies have been used to customize their morphological and structural features, including ultrasonication, LbL self-assembly, chemical reduction, photochemical processing, microwave-assisted synthesis, and hydro/solvothermal methods. We emphasize the increased surface area, tunable optical properties, improved stability, and enhanced catalytic performance of QDs@LDH nanocomposites that unlock a myriad of biomedical, sensor, energy storage and conversion, optoelectronic, catalytic, environmental, flame retardant, anti-fake detection, paper protection and forensic applications. Mechanistic insights into defect engineering, charge transfer mechanisms, and QD-LDH interactions are provided, elucidating the underlying principles of these nanocomposites’ behavior and functionality.