Formation of high quality InP and InAs nanocrystals in a noncoordinating solvent

High quality InP nanocrystals without any size sorting were synthesized in a noncoordinating solvent by strictly controlling the reaction parameters. This synthetic method is much faster, less expensive, and "greener" than any current methods for the synthesis of high quality InP nanocrystals. Fatty acids with well-defined chain lengths as the ligands, a noncoordinating solvent, and a thorough degassing process are critical factors for the formation of high quality InP nanocrystals. The growth of nearly monodisperse InAs nanocrystals through a similar scheme was also observed.