Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a sensing agent. The sensing agent comprises a quantum dot; and a dye moiety coupled to the quantum dot. The sensing agent is capable of sensing at least one analyte chosen from hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and bisulfide. Sensors made from the sensing agents are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a sensing agent. The sensing agent comprises a quantum dot; and a dye moiety coupled to the quantum dot. The sensing agent is capable of sensing at least one analyte chosen from hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and bisulfide. Sensors made from the sensing agents are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to lasers comprising fluidic channels, such as microfluidic channels. In some instances, the channel contains two or more fluids. The fluids may remain non-mixed within the channel, for example, due to immiscibility and/or laminar flow within the channel. The fluids may be arranged in the channel such that light propagating in a first fluid is prevented by the second fluid from exiting the first fluid, for example, due to differences in the indexes of refraction (e.g., causing internal reflection of the fluid to occur). Thus, in one embodiment, a first fluid may be at least partially surrounded by a second fluid having a second index of refraction lower than the index of refraction of the first fluid. In some embodiments, the fluidic channel is used as a laser, for instance, a dye laser, i.e., a laser created by directing light at a dye to produce coherent light. The dye may be present in one or more fluids within the fluidic channel.

Abstract: An optical resonator can include an optical feedback structure disposed on a substrate, and a composite including a matrix including a chromophore. The composite disposed on the substrate and in optical communication with the optical feedback structure. The chromophore can be a semiconductor nanocrystal. The resonator can provide laser emission when excited.