Quantum Dots: Tiny Tech, Big Impact

Quantum dots (QDs) are nanoscale semiconductors, so small that their electrons are confined to a limited space. This confinement gives them unique optical and electronic properties; they can absorb light and then re-emit it at specific wavelengths. The wavelength of the emitted light depends on the size of the dot, allowing for precise control of color. This property makes them incredibly valuable in a wide array of applications.

UbiQD’s innovations build upon the foundational research that earned the 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Some of ubiqd’s core intellectual property includes one of the Nobel Laureates as an inventor. These tiny nanocrystals, whose properties change based on their size, have opened new possibilities in light optimization, with applications ranging from solar, display, security, medicine, agriculture, design, and more.

Applications Across U.S. Industries

UbiQD’s quantum dot technology is finding traction in several key U.S. industries:

• Agriculture: Quantum dots can be used in greenhouse films to manipulate the spectrum of sunlight, enhancing plant growth and increasing crop yields. This is particularly relevant in states like California and Florida, where greenhouse agriculture is a significant part of the economy.
• Solar Energy: By improving energy conversion efficiency in photovoltaic panels, quantum dots can lower the cost per watt of solar power.This is crucial for increasing the adoption of solar energy across the U.S. and meeting renewable energy goals.
• Security: Quantum dots can be incorporated into security inks and tags, providing a covert way to authenticate products and prevent counterfeiting. This has applications in industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to currency.

Investment to Fuel Expansion and Innovation

The $20 million Series B funding will be strategically deployed to:

• Scale up quantum dot manufacturing to meet growing demand.
• Expand research and development efforts to explore new applications and improve existing technologies.
• Strengthen intellectual property protection.
• Enhance marketing efforts to reach a wider audience.
• support working capital needs.

UbiQD is also upgrading its facilities in Los Alamos,New Mexico,and planning new infrastructure to establish a global supply chain for next-generation quantum materials. “Every major advancement in the history of humankind has been underpinned by materials innovation but unlocked by manufacturing scale, from the iron age to the semiconductor age. Quantum dots provide an excellent example of this, being at the heart of an ongoing nano- and quantum-technological revolution,” said Hunter McDaniel, PhD, founder and CEO of UbiQD. “With our pioneering work in quantum nanotechnology, we are advancing innovation and establishing the U.S., and New Mexico, as a leader in these transformative fields.”

Acquisition of Blue Dot Photonics

In February 2025, UbiQD expanded its capabilities with the acquisition of Blue Dot Photonics, a company specializing in enhancing solar module performance using perovskite-based quantum-cutting materials. Perovskites are a class of materials with a crystal structure similar to that of the mineral perovskite.They have shown great promise in solar cells due to their ability to absorb sunlight efficiently.

Quantum cutting is a process where one high-energy photon is converted into two or more lower-energy photons. When perovskites are combined into quantum dots, and applied as films on solar modules they can improve their electrical output. This acquisition strengthens UbiQD’s position in the solar energy sector. “This is far more then a scientific milestone—it’s a material breakthrough with transformative commercial potential,” said Jim Kim, General Partner at Builders VC. “Hunter and the UbiQD team have successfully translated quantum dot technology from the lab to real-world applications, creating scalable solutions for solar energy and agriculture. With accelerating customer adoption, a new factory underway in New Mexico, and industrial-scale production on the near horizon, the outlook is incredibly shining.”

Counterpoint: Challenges and Opportunities

While the potential of quantum dots is significant, challenges remain. the manufacturing of high-quality quantum dots at scale can be complex and expensive. Furthermore, some quantum dots contain heavy metals like cadmium, raising environmental concerns. However, UbiQD and other companies are actively developing cadmium-free quantum dots to address these concerns.

Despite these challenges,the opportunities for quantum dots are vast. As technology improves and costs come down, quantum dots are poised to play an increasingly crucial role in various industries, driving innovation and creating new economic opportunities across the U.S.

U.S. Quantum Dot Market Trends

The United States is at the forefront of quantum dot research and development. Several factors drive the growth of the quantum dot market in the U.S., including:

• Increasing investments in nanotechnology research by both government and private sectors.
• Rising demand for energy-efficient and sustainable technologies.
• Growing adoption of advanced display technologies in consumer electronics.
• Supportive government policies and regulations promoting renewable energy.

FAQ: Quantum Dots and Their impact

What are quantum dots?

Quantum dots are nanoscale semiconductor crystals that exhibit quantum mechanical properties. Their size determines the color of light they emit when excited,making them useful in displays,solar cells,and other applications.

how do quantum dots improve solar panel efficiency?

Quantum dots can absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity more efficiently than traditional materials. They can also be used to split one high-energy photon into two lower-energy photons,increasing the overall energy conversion efficiency of solar panels.

Are quantum dots safe for the environment?

Some quantum dots contain heavy metals like cadmium,which can be harmful to the environment. Though,researchers are developing cadmium-free quantum dots using alternative materials such as indium phosphide and zinc sulfide.

What are the main applications of quantum dots in the U.S.?

The main applications of quantum dots in the U.S. include displays (TVs, smartphones), solar energy, healthcare (imaging, diagnostics), and security (anti-counterfeiting measures).

How is the U.S. government supporting quantum dot technology?

The U.S. government supports quantum dot technology through funding for research and development, tax incentives for renewable energy, and regulations promoting energy efficiency.