Experimental chemistry is not our forte, so we prefer to use professionally-manufactured quantum dots for the Schrödinger’s Wave Equation experiments we discuss in the book‘s Chapter 7. However, if you are interested in synthesizing your own quantum-dot nanoparticle suspensions, we recommend that you take a look at the detailed instructions prepared by Professor George Lisensky at Beloit College for the Preparation of Cadmium Selenide Quantum Dot Nanoparticles (Local printer-friendly copy at: CdSe_Quantum_Dot_Synthesis).
Professor Lisensky’s procedure is based on E. M. Boatman, G. C. Lisensky, and K. J. Nordell, “A Safer, Easier, Faster Synthesis for CdSe Quantum Dot Nanocrystals,” J. Chem. Educ., 82, 1697-1699 (2005) and W. William Yu and Xiaogang Peng, “Formation of High Quality Semiconductor Nanocrystals in Non-Coordinating Solvents,” Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 41, 2368-2370 (2002).
In addition, the following two YouTube videos are very helpful in understanding the process:
WARNING: The chemicals and processes involved in the synthesis of quantum dots are dangerous! We do not recommend anyone without proper training and equipment to handle and process very toxic chemicals to try synthesizing these nanoparticles.