Appendix: The Quest for HgCdTe Quantum Dots

1. An initial attempt to synthesize HgCdTe nanocrystals at high temperatures, following methods outlined later for CdTe QDs. XPS confirmed that only CdTe QDs were formed. 2. High temperature experiments to make HgTe at gradually increasing, or ramped temperatures (from 160 270 C). These produced dark brown solutions with no evidence of QD absorption peaks. 3. Low temperature experiments (from 60 111C) to make HgTe or CdTe on a multi-sample, multi-temperature agitated platform, or shaker. Reaction times varied from minutes to hours, days, and weeks. There was no evidence of QD absorption peaks. The observed results fell into three categories: a. Yellow solution, indicating no change from the original precursors; b. Brown metallic coating inside the vials, leaving a clear solution; & c. Heavy black precipitate in light yellow solutions.