In situ ligand exchange of thiol-capped CuInS2/ZnS quantum dots at growth stage without affecting luminescent characteristics

► An aliphatic-thiol ligands of CuInS2/ZnS core/shell quantum dots are exchanged during growth stage. ► Ligand-exchanged quantum dots show excellent dispersibility on polar solvents. ► Negligible changes were observed in their luminescence characteristics. ► A 70% of initial ligands are exchanged to hydroxyl-functionalized ligands.