Facile One-Step Synthesis of Carbon Quantum Dots Via Hot Injection for High-Efficiency Dye Photodegradation

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are zero-dimensional nanomaterials with unique optical and electronic properties.
• Their tunable photoluminescence, biocompatibility, and environmental friendliness make them attractive for various applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a facile, efficient, and scalable synthesis for high-performance CQDs.
• To evaluate the photocatalytic activity of synthesized CQDs for dye degradation.

Main Methods:

• A one-pot hot injection technique was used for CQD synthesis.
• The photocatalytic degradation of Indigo Carmine (IC) dye under UV irradiation was monitored.
• Radical scavenging studies were performed to elucidate the degradation mechanism.

Main Results:

• Well-dispersed, highly luminescent CQDs with uniform particle size were synthesized.
• CQDs demonstrated outstanding photocatalytic performance in degrading IC dye.
• Efficient light harvesting, rapid charge separation, and reactive oxygen species generation were key to performance.

Conclusions:

• A straightforward and reproducible method for synthesizing high-performance CQDs was established.
• CQDs show significant potential as standalone photocatalysts for environmental remediation.
• These findings support the development of sustainable nanomaterials for advanced pollution control.