Aqueous Synthesis of CdTe Quantum Dot Using Dithiol‐Functionalized Ionic Liquid

We report on an aqueous synthesis of cadmium telluride (CdTe) nanocrystals by using dithiol‐functionalized ionic liquids (dTFILs). The dTFILs were designed to have dithiol and vinylimidazolium functional groups and used as a ligand molecule of CdTe quantum dot (QD) to utilize the bidendate chelate interaction afforded by the dithiol groups of dTFILs. The photoluminescence quantum yield of dTFIL‐capped CdTe QDs reached up to ~40%, and their luminescent property was maintained for 8 weeks, suggesting an improved stability in water phase. This approach will provide a new synthetic route to the water soluble QDs.