Self-assembly of lead chalcogenide nanocrystals

Abstract

This review focuses on recent developments in the self-assembly of lead chalcogenide nanocrystals into two- and three-dimensional superstructures. Self-assembly is categorized by the shapes of building blocks, including nanospheres, nanocubes, nano-octahedra, and nanostars. In the section on nanospheres, rapid assemblies of lead chalcogenide-based multicomponent nanocrystals with additional components, such as semiconductors, noble metals, and magnetic nanocrystals, are further highlighted. In situ self-assembly of lead chalcogenide nanocrystals into one-dimensional nanostructures at elevated temperatures is also covered. Each section of this paper highlights examples extracted from recent publications. Finally, relatively novel properties and applications arising from lead chalcogenide superlattices as typical examples are also discussed.