Facile synthesis of CQDs/Ag NPs composites with photoluminescence and their potential application in antibacterial materials

Abstract

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) and Ag NPs have been applied in many fields due to excellent optical performances and other special characteristics. However, how to release their superimposed effects is still a challenge. For utilizing the properties of CQDs and Ag NPs synergistically, CQDs/Ag NPs composites were synthesized via in-situ method assisted by ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation. The diameter of as-prepared CQDs/Ag NPs composites was in the range of 20–28 nm, and the absorption band of visible light by CQDs/Ag NPs-6 was expanded to 450 nm. Furthermore, the fluorescence emission peak for CQDs /Ag NPs appeared at 393 nm. The antibacterial properties of CQDs/Ag NPs composites were better than silver nitrate and solo Ag NPs solutions. Therefore, this paper can provide a facile and favorable method for preparing excellent antibacterial materials in future.