Quantum dot-polymethacrylate composites for the analysis of NOx by fluorescence spectroscopy

► A new type of hybrid materials composed by CdSe/ZnS quantum dots adsorbed on polymethacrylate surfaces has been synthesized. ► The pre-formation of the polymeric matrix and the subsequent incorporation of QDs were used to prepare the hybrid materials. ► The films have been characterized by steady state and time-resolved fluorimetry. ► The ability of such materials to sense NO and NOx has been investigated. ► Fluorescence quenching measurements allowed estimation of detection limits: ca. 0.1 ppm for NO and ca. 1.0 ppm for NOx.