III–V colloidal nanocrystals: control of covalent surfaces

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are nanosized semiconductors whose electronic features are dictated by the quantum confinement effect. The optical, electrical, and chemical properties of QDs are influenced by their dimensions and surface landscape. The surface of II–VI and IV–VI QDs has been extensively explored; however, in-depth investigations on the surface of III–V QDs are still lagging behind. This Perspective discusses the current understanding of the surface of III–V QDs, outlines deep trap states presented by surface defects, and suggests strategies to overcome challenges associated with deep traps. Lastly, we discuss a route to create well-defined facets in III–V QDs by providing a platform for surface studies and a recently reported approach in atomistic understanding of covalent III–V QD surfaces using the electron counting model with fractional dangling bonds.