Q
Quantum Dots (RoHS Exemption Status)
Definition
Quantum dots are semiconductor nanocrystals used in display technologies (QLED displays, photoluminescent films in LCDs) to enhance colour accuracy and efficiency. Cadmium selenide (CdSe) quantum dots contain cadmium, a restricted substance under RoHS Annex II at 0.01% (100 ppm) per homogeneous material. Annex III entry 39(a) provided an exemption for cadmium in quantum dots for LED chips, which expired November 21, 2025 following Directive (EU) 2024/1416 (published May 21, 2024). Directive (EU) 2024/1416 created a revised, narrower-scope exemption entry 39(b) covering specific remaining quantum dot applications that cannot yet be replaced with cadmium-free alternatives.
Source
Directive 2011/65/EU, Annex III entry 39; Directive (EU) 2024/1416 (May 21, 2024); Annex III entry 39(a) expiry November 21, 2025; Annex III entry 39(b) new scope.
Practical Explanation (Compliance Context)
Display manufacturers and EEE producers using cadmium-based quantum dots must immediately verify whether their specific application falls within Annex III entry 39(b)’s revised, narrower scope. Products previously covered by entry 39(a) that no longer fall within entry 39(b) must transition to cadmium-free quantum dot alternatives (e.g., InP-based quantum dots) or cease using cadmium quantum dot technology. Non-compliance since November 21, 2025 for out-of-scope applications is a serious market access risk.