Novel Au+-doped Zn x Cd1−x S/ZnS core/shell quantum dots

Au+ ions have been successfully incorporated into the lattice of ZnxCd1−xS quantum dots as luminescent centers via an aqueous method. The dopant emission can be tuned in the range of 445 to 570 nm, and the highest quantum yield can reach as high as 30%. Our results showed that Au+ ions can be used as an excellent luminescent dopant in doped quantum dots. Finally, these water-soluble quantum dots can be used directly in PL imaging of HepG2 cells without conjugating any biological targets, indicating a high potential application in bio-labeling.