CdS quantum dot (QD) solar concentrators were prepared by a sol–gel spin coating method. Thin films were prepared at different
annealing temperatures and characterized by X-ray diffraction and spectroscopic techniques. The effect of temperature on the optical
properties of CdS QDs embedded in silica matrix was assessed before and after exposure of the samples to sunlight for up to 4 weeks.
The results show that as the annealing temperature increases, the fluorescent intensity and Stokes shift decrease. Therefore lower temperatures
are preferable for the preparation of highly efficient QD solar concentrator systems.