Recent Advances in Copper-Doped CdSe Colloidal Quantum Wells: A Photophysical and Application Perspective

Doping CdSe colloidal quantum wells (CQWs) with transition-metal ions such as Cu has recently emerged as a powerful strategy for tailoring their electronic structure, excitonic response, and lattice interaction, complementary to what can be achieved through quantum-size control or heterostructure engineering. In this perspective, we highlight recent advances in Cu-doped CdSe CQWs from both fundamental and application-oriented viewpoints. We summarize how Cu incorporation modulates the intrinsic photophysical behavior of CQWs, including carrier recombination pathways, carrier-phonon interaction, and nonlinear optical responses. Building on these fundamental insights, we discuss performance advances in key optoelectronic devices, such as luminescent solar concentrators, light-emitting diodes, and optically pumped lasers, that directly leverage these dopant-engineered properties. Finally, we outline emerging opportunities and key challenges for leveraging doped CQWs in next-generation optoelectronic and photonic platforms.