Low temperature synthesis of InP nanocrystals

We present a simple method for the chemical synthesis of InP nanocrystals, which comprises several advantages: (i) the use of simple reagents, namely InCl3·4H2O and yellow P as the In and P precursors, respectively, and NaBH4 as the reducing agent in a mixed solvent of ethanol and toluene; (ii) a short reaction time (1–5 h) and low temperature (<75 °C); (iii) a high reaction yield approaching 100%. InP NCs in the zinc-blende structure have been obtained as confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction and Raman scattering measurements. Their mean size of 4 nm has been determined by transmission electron microscopy, Raman scattering and absorption spectroscopy.