Correlation of atomic structure and photoluminescence of the same quantum dot: pinpointing surface and internal defects that inhibit photoluminescence.

In a size regime where every atom counts, rational design and synthesis of optimal nanostructures demands direct interrogation of the effects of structural divergence of individuals on the ensemble-averaged property. To this end, we have explored the structure-function relationship of single quantum dots (QDs) via precise observation of the impact of atomic arrangement on QD fluorescence. Utilizing wide-field fluorescence microscopy and atomic number contrast scanning transmission electron microscopy (Z-STEM), we have achieved correlation of photoluminescence (PL) data and atomic-level structural information from individual colloidal QDs. This investigation of CdSe/CdS core/shell QDs has enabled exploration of the fine structural factors necessary to control QD PL. Additionally, we have identified specific morphological and structural anomalies, in the form of internal and surface defects, that consistently vitiate QD PL.