Spectral Engineering with Quantum Dot Films for Enhanced Crop Growth.

ABSTRACT: Passive spectral manipulation strategies tune transmitted sunlight to more optimal wavelengths for plant growth. Quantum dots (QDs) embedded in polymer films are a promising material system for this application. Here, we simulate lettuce growth under nine different nontoxic QD films. QDs that strongly absorb blue/green light and downshift it to red/far-red wavelengths result in yield enhancements of up to 45%. We find that these QD films can be utilized broadly in greenhouses in the United States. Contrary to prevailing belief, increasing the intensity of down-shifted photoluminescence does not further increase yield, indicating that QD absorption is the most important factor.

SUBMITTER: Loh KQ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12560175 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature