Comprehensive Insights into Carbon Quantum Dots: Synthesis Strategies and Multidomain Applications.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Chemistry

Background:

• Carbon Quantum Dots (CQDs) are emerging 0D nanomaterials.
• They exhibit desirable properties like photoluminescence, biocompatibility, and stability.
• CQDs offer potential in diverse scientific and technological applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of recent advances in CQD synthesis.
• To discuss the impact of doping and functionalization on CQD properties.
• To highlight the applications of CQDs in various domains.

Main Methods:

• Overview of top-down (arc discharge, electrochemical oxidation, laser ablation) and bottom-up (hydrothermal, solvothermal, microwave-assisted, thermal decomposition) synthesis strategies.
• Emphasis on green synthesis routes using natural precursors.
• Discussion of characterization techniques (UV-Vis, PL, TEM, FTIR, XRD, Raman spectroscopy).

Main Results:

• CQDs can be synthesized through various methods, including sustainable green routes.
• Heteroatom doping and surface functionalization tune CQD electronic and optical properties.
• CQDs show promise in photocatalysis, solar cells, biosensing, and drug delivery.

Conclusions:

• CQDs possess significant potential for transformative applications in environmental, energy, and biomedical sectors.
• Further research into synthesis, functionalization, and characterization will unlock their full capabilities.
• CQDs represent a key area for future nanotechnology development.