SUMMARY

A major barrier to the utilization of quantum dots (QDs) in commercial applications is the high cost associated with conventional chemical synthesis as well as the use of high temperatures and toxic solvents, thereby requiring specialized, expensive waste disposal procedures. Lehigh University has developed an optimized, bacterial-based synthesis method for semiconductor quantum dots that does not require expensive reagents, solvents or other materials. The process is capable of producing large quantities of QDs from a continuous process at a cost less than $1 per gram, whereas traditional technology an cost upwards of $10,000 per gram.  [1,2] The technology enables the producing of QDs on a scale necessary for their successful use in a number of commercial applications such in solar cells, light emitting diodes and medical imaging.  

Lehigh Tech ID#081211-01

THE MARKET

It is predicted that the market for products relying on quantum dots will reach $721 million in 2013, which is up from $28.6 million in 2008. This is a large growth prediction, mainly based on higher demands for energy efficient technologies where QDs can have a significant impact. Currently QDs has established themselves in a niche market for life sciences and biomedical applications, but improvements in manufacturing of QDs focused on cost reduction will open up opportunity within the energy sector, especially within solar cells products whose market is expected to reach $96 billion in the next three years. [1,2,3]

THE OPPORTUNITY

Lehigh University is interested in both licensing this technology or in finding investment partners to establish a start-up for this technology.