Quantum Dot Synthesis and Photophysical Characterisation for Application in Luminescent Solar Concentrators in Northern Nigeria

Background: Luminescent solar concentrators incorporating quantum dots offer a path to low-cost building-integrated photovoltaics suited to Nigeria's abundant sunlight. However, quantum dot synthesis and characterisation under local laboratory conditions in Northern Nigeria has not been reported. Aim: This study synthesised CdSe/ZnS core-shell quantum dots and characterised their photophysical properties for luminescent solar concentrator application in Northern Nigeria. Methods: Quantum dots were synthesised via hot injection using oleylamine and oleic acid as capping ligands at temperatures from 200 to 280 degrees Celsius. Optical characterisation included UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, and quantum yield measurement using an integrating sphere. Size distribution was determined by transmission electron microscopy. Results: Tunable emission from 530 to 640 nm was achieved by varying synthesis temperature. Maximum photoluminescence quantum yield was 68% for 550 nm emitting particles. Mean particle size ranged from 3.2 to 5.8 nm with narrow size distributions below 10%. Photoluminescence reabsorption losses were quantified as the primary performance limiter for large-area concentrators. Conclusion: CdSe/ZnS quantum dots synthesised under local laboratory conditions exhibit photophysical properties suitable for luminescent solar concentrator application. Large-area concentrator fabrication and outdoor performance testing are recommended as next steps. Keywords: quantum dots, luminescent solar concentrator, CdSe, photoluminescence, building-integrated photovoltaics.