Quantum Science confirms industry-leading position

Presentations made by semiconductor companies at the 70th Annual IEEE International Electron Devices Meeting (IEDM) in San Francisco on Wednesday 11 December validated Quantum Science’s position as the frontrunner in lead-free QD innovation.   

Quantum Science’s INFIQ lead-free QDs demonstrate unparalleled performance in short-wave infrared (SWIR) sensing, reaching a peak wavelength of 1,400nm. The technology also features external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 16% at -1V and dark current below 1 µA/cm2 at the operating voltage.  

These results are possible due to Quantum Science’s patented lead-free QD ink system that enables single-layer deposition without requiring additional ligand exchange processes, positioning Quantum Science at the forefront of performance in lead-free QD technology.  

Dr Hao Pang, CEO and Founder of Quantum Science, said: “We were pleased to read the latest results presented at the 70th annual IEDM that confirmed what we have known for some time – that INFIQ infrared lead-free QDs are the highest performing technology in the industry. With lead-free QDs driving significant value in the SWIR sensing and imaging market, INFIQ technology is uniquely positioned to support our customers with unmatched performance and a scalable, cost-effective solution.”  

The market for SWIR technologies is projected to reach $2.9 billion in 2028 up from $322 million in 2022, driven by emerging applications in consumer electronics like smartphones, wearable devices, automation, and augmented reality systems.  

INFIQ lead-free QDs offer the performance and scalability required to support this growth while not being subject to common restrictions on the use of heavy metals in consumer markets.  

In 2023, Quantum Science became the first company to report lead-free QDs sensitive to wavelengths of 1,550nm, overcoming performance barriers thanks to its precise control over QD growth without damaging their optical properties.  

Dr Pang added: “Quantum Science remains committed to driving the adoption of lead-free SWIR technologies into consumer markets. With our revolutionary INFIQ platform now validated as the best in the industry, we are redefining the market for advanced SWIR sensing and imaging. As demand for this technology grows over the next few years, we stand ready to support SWIR manufacturers with the best infrared lead-free QDs and QD inks and are excited to see this technology enter commercial products in the developing consumer and machine vision imaging markets.”