Abstract: Techniques and mechanisms for synthesizing quantum dot structures. In an embodiment, a first reaction is performed to dissolve a precursor of a semiconductor material, wherein water is created as a by-product of the first reaction. Some or all of the water is removed and another chemical compound is added, wherein the chemical compound is a primary alcohol or a 1,2-diol. After the addition of the chemical compound, a second reaction is performed to grow at least some nanocrystalline portion of the quantum dot. In another embodiment, the chemical compound is 1,2-hexanediol, 1,2-dodecanediol or 1-octadecanol.