Superior Multiple Exciton Generation in Ecofriendly Ag<sub>2</sub>Se Colloidal Quantum Dots.

Yu, Junhong; Wang, Zhixuan; Yang, Hongchao; Liao, Jingyan; Li, Jiajie; Liu, Baiquan; Yu, Xuechao · Nano Lett · 2025

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Multiple exciton generation (MEG) or carrier multiplication, which yields two electron-hole pairs or excitons from one absorbed high-energy photon, holds great promise to enhance the conversion efficiency of optoelectronic devices. Currently, the realization of efficient MEG largely relies on colloidal nanocrystals containing toxic heavy-metal elements, with eco-friendly and satisfactory forerunners remaining out of reach. Here, we report the superior MEG characteristics in low-toxicity Ag<sub>2</sub>Se colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) with a low threshold commencing close to the energy conservation limit of twice the bandgap energy (∼2.26<i>E</i><sub>g</sub>) and a high conversion efficiency reaching up to ∼91% based on the standard model. Nonequilibrium dynamics suggest that, benefiting from the sparse density of states in Ag<sub>2</sub>Se CQDs, efficient MEG prolongs the buildup of exciton populations and occurs via the inverse Auger process. Combined with the solution processability and an optimal bandgap close to 1 eV, Ag<sub>2</sub>Se CQDs may serve as an excellent candidate for sustainable and flexible third-generation photovoltaics.