Citing growing interest from the lighting industry, Nanoco Group PLC has formed a division to develop cadmium-free quantum dot (CFQD) technology. The company said it aims to develop CFQDs that provide high color performance without sacrificing efficiency. Retail applications for the quantum dots include high-end retail store and supermarket lighting, surgical lights and professional photography. Potential agricultural applications include the enhancement of chlorophyll absorption peaks to produce healthier, higher-yielding plants. "This is an important step in the company's evolution, one that demonstrates the role of CFQD quantum dots as a true platform technology," said Nanoco CEO Michael Edelman. Nanoco develops nanomaterials for use in lighting, LCDs, solar cells and bioimaging. Founded in 2001, the company has a U.S. subsidiary, Nanoco US Inc., and business development offices in Japan, Korea and Taiwan. For more information, visit www.nanocotechnologies.com.