Open Access

REVIEW

Fluid Dynamics of Quantum Dot Inks: Non-Newtonian Behavior and Precision Control in Advanced Printing

Zhen Gong^#, Siyu Chen^#, Zhenyu Feng, Dawang Li, Le Zhang, Meiting Xu, Yanping Lin, Huixin Huang, Dan Jiang, Caiyi Wu, Yichun Ke, Zhonghui Du^*, Ning Zhao, Hongbo Liu^*

School of Materials & Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen Polytechnic University, Shenzhen, 518055, China

* Corresponding Authors: Zhonghui Du. Email: ; Hongbo Liu. Email:
# These authors contributed equally to this work

Fluid Dynamics & Materials Processing 2025, 21(9), 2101-2129. https://doi.org/10.32604/fdmp.2025.068946

Received 10 June 2025; Accepted 12 September 2025; Issue published 30 September 2025

Abstract

Quantum dot inks (QDIs) represent an emerging functional material that integrates nanotechnology and fluid engineering, demonstrating significant application potential in flexible optoelectronics and high-color gamut displays. Their wide applicability is due to a unique quantum confinement effect that enables precise spectral tunability and solution-processable properties. However, the complex fluid dynamics associated with QDIs at micro-/nano-scales severely limit the accuracy of inkjet printing and pattern deposition. This review systematically addresses recent advances in the hydrodynamics of QDIs, establishing scientific mechanisms and key technical breakthroughs from an interdisciplinary perspective. Current research has focused on three optimization directions: (1) regulating ligand structures to enhance colloidal stability, flow consistency, and anti-shear performance while mitigating nanoparticle aggregation; (2) incorporating low-viscosity or high-volatility solvents and surface tension modifiers to modify droplet dynamic characteristics and suppress the “coffee-ring” effect; (3) integrating advanced technologies such as electrohydrodynamic jetting and microfluidic targeted deposition to achieve submicron pattern resolution and high film uniformity, expanding adaptability in flexible electronics, biosensing, and anti-counterfeiting printing. A comparison of current technical routes and critical performance indicators has identified the dominant variables that influence QDI macroscopic/microscopic properties. A comprehensive analytical framework is presented which spans material structure, rheological behavior, manufacturing processes, and functional characteristics. Moreover, a proposed engineering ‘structure–parameter–behavior–performance’ serves to link core–shell structure, formulation parameters (e.g., viscosity and surface tension), fluidic behavior (e.g., shear thinning and Marangoni flow), and device performance (e.g., resolution and photoluminescence efficiency). The findings provide theoretical support and decision-making guidance for the large-scale application and interdisciplinary expansion of QDIs.

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