The controlled and reproducible formation of colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals (or quantum dots) is of central importance in nanoscale science and technology. The tunable size- and shape-dependent properties of such materials make them ideal candidates for the development of efficient and low-cost displays, solar cells, light-emitting devices, and catalysts. The formidable difficulties associated with the macroscale preparation of semiconductor nanocrystals (possessing bespoke optical and chemical properties) result from the fact that underlying reaction mechanisms are complex and that the reactive environment is difficult to control. Automated microfluidic reactors coupled with monitoring systems and optimization algorithms aim to elucidate complex reaction mechanisms that govern both nucleation and growth of nanocrystals. Such platforms are ideally suited for the efficient optimization of reaction parameters, assuring the reproducible synthesis of nanocrystals with user-defined properties.

中文翻译：

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微流体技术：揭示纳米晶成核和生长的机制。

胶体半导体纳米晶体（或量子点）的可控制和可再现的形成在纳米级科学和技术中至关重要。此类材料的尺寸和形状相关的可调属性使其成为开发高效和低成本显示器，太阳能电池，发光器件和催化剂的理想选择。与半导体纳米晶体的大规模制备相关的巨大困难（具有定制的光学和化学性质）是由于以下事实：基本的反应机理复杂且反应环境难以控制。自动化的微流体反应器与监测系统和优化算法相结合，旨在阐明控制纳米晶体成核和生长的复杂反应机理。