Recent advances in carbon dots: from multifunctionality to energy storage

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Electrochemistry

Background:

• Carbon dots (CDs) are novel carbon-based nanomaterials with a core-shell structure.
• Their properties include electrical conductivity, aqueous solubility, biocompatibility, and luminescence.
• CDs have diverse applications, including in energy storage technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the discovery, classification, and synthesis of carbon dots.
• To highlight advances in CD applications, focusing on energy storage.
• To discuss CD-enabled modifications for aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) and lithium-metal batteries (LMBs).

Main Methods:

• Literature review of carbon dot research.
• Analysis of CD synthesis methodologies.
• Focused discussion on CD applications in AZIBs and LMBs.

Main Results:

• CDs possess versatile properties suitable for energy storage applications.
• CDs can enhance electrode and electrolyte performance in AZIBs and LMBs.
• Interfacial engineering and reaction kinetics are key areas for CD implementation.

Conclusions:

• Carbon dots show significant promise for improving next-generation energy storage systems.
• Addressing challenges like dendrite growth and electrolyte instability is crucial.
• Future research should focus on optimizing CD integration for enhanced battery performance and cycle life.