State-of-the-Art on Silicon Quantum Dots (SiQDs) and Silicon Nanoparticles (SiNPs)

Dear Colleagues,

Since the novel optical properties of porous silicon were discovered by Leigh Canham in the early 1990s, the research community has been carrying out intensive research on developing silicon quantum dots (SiQDs) and silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) from classical porous silicon and from nanotechnology-based synthesis methods. For example, inverse micelle template formation, laser plasma synthesis, and lithography template methods are among the typical bottom–up and top–down routes. During synthesis procedures, a critical issue is to prevent oxidation, which can be achieved by conjugation with functional groups on the surface.

Their quantum confined optical and electronic properties provide SiQDs with wide-ranging applications in biomedical imaging, drug delivery, and cancer targeting. The key step for such applications is to modify the surface with various functional ligands. Alkyl group-capped SiQDs are among the earliest versions, but the surfaces are well-protected from oxidation, which is still the best choice in terms of stability and the reliability of emission intensity. Amine-terminated SiQDs are acting as a platform for further functionalization. Recently developed thiourea-functionalized SiQDs possess a strong ability to target epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) that are overexpressed in cancer cells. Other complex designs, such as encapsulations with drugs, provide vehicles for drug delivery and monitoring.

Silicon is the foundation for modern electronics and is still irreplaceable in the semiconductor industry, such as in information technology, artificial intelligence, and energy conversion and storage. Silicon nanostructures have been playing extraordinary roles in memory devices, thermoelectrics, and solar energy conversion, and act as powerful anodes in batteries and supercapacitors.

Nanotoxicity, reliability, stability, and reactivity of nanoparticles are important topics for environmentally friendly synthesis and sustainable applications. The research field is advancing to new areas very rapidly.

It is my great pleasure to invite you to submit your manuscripts to this Special Issue. Research articles, communications, and reviews are all welcome.

Dr. Yimin Chao
Guest Editor

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• porous silicon
• silicon quantum dots
• synthesis and functionalization
• energy and environment
• biomedical imaging
• biosensor
• drug delivery
• cancer targeting and diagnosis