Are quantum dots toxic
Scientists from Texas have reported that a recent research they’ve conducted showed that quantum dots may be toxic under certain conditions — acidic or alkaline. Products based on quantum dots are spreading in many areas — electronics, medical diagnostics and solar cells, and that’s why these results are very concerning.
The research showed that quantum dots are semiconductor nanocrystals made of a metal core surrounded by a shell composed of zinc or cadmium sulfide. Researchers are concerned that these submicroscopic dots could decompose during normal use or after disposal. That decomposition could release toxic metals into the environment, posing a health risk to humans and animals.
To explore this further, scientists exposed two types of bacteria to quantum dots under different conditions – acidity and alkalinity. At near neutral pH levels, bacteria exposed to quantum dots experienced decreased rates of growth, but did not die. However, at moderately acidic or alkaline conditions, many of the quantum dots-exposed bacteria died as quantum dot’s shells decomposed, releasing their content of toxic metals. However, proteins and natural organic matter may be able to mitigate toxicity by complexing metal ions or coating particles.
Source: ACS
