The Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded to the scientists who discovered and developed the nanoparticles known as Quantum Dots. This nanotechnology is now fundamental to the production of HD and UltraHD displays.

On October 4th, the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences awarded the 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry to Alexei Ekimov of Nanocrystals Technology Inc. (NY), Louis E. Brus of Columbia University, and Moungi Bawendi of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology “for the discovery and synthesis of Quantum Dots.” This is a nanotechnology that is revolutionizing the production of HD and UltraHD displays, intended not only for domestic and entertainment use but also for professional applications (consider the implications in the medical and surgical fields). “Quantum dots have many fascinating and unusual properties. It is important to note that they have different colors depending on their size,” said Johan Åqvist, chairman of the Nobel Committee for Chemistry.

As early as the 1980s, Alexei Ekimov succeeded in creating size-dependent quantum effects in colored glass. A few years later, Louis Brus was the first to demonstrate size-dependent quantum effects in particles freely floating in a fluid. In 1993, Moungi Bawendi revolutionized the chemical production of quantum dots, achieving near-perfect particles, enabling their use in practical applications. Researchers believe that Quantum Dots, which now illuminate computer monitors and television screens based on QLED technology, could, in the future, contribute to flexible electronics, micro-sensors, thinner solar cells, and encrypted quantum communication, bringing enormous benefits to humanity.

“The Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2023 highlights the importance that research in a complex and fascinating field like nanotechnology holds in industrial applications, medicine, and consumer electronics,” commented Tonio Di Stefano, President of HD Forum Italia. “It is also thanks to the development of Quantum Dots that today millions of people can appreciate the quality of HD and UltraHD images through QLED screens.”