Solid-state fluorescence based on nitrogen and calcium co-doped carbon quantum dots @ bioplastic composites for applications in optical displays and light-emitting diodes

Abstract

Biocompatibility, low toxicity, ease of functionalization, ecologically sustainable synthesis, and a diverse variety of applications have all contributed to the current popularity of fluorescent carbon quantum dots (CQDs), a relatively new rising star among zero-dimensional carbon nanomaterials. However, expensive precursors and production, as well as a time-consuming procedure, frequently restrict the economic design that must be addressed. In this work, we report an economical, sustainable and green synthesis of fluorescent CQDs co-doped with N and Ca from mustard (Brassica) flower extract without the need of additional doping element precursors. The quasi-circular or polygonal shaped CQDs were revealed to be yellow-greenish fluorescent in nature with outstanding photo-stability and excellent water solubility, with an average diameter of 4.38 nm and a relative quantum yield of about 15%. The compositional analysis, crystallinity, and functional groups contained in as-synthesized N,Ca-co-doped CQDs were determined by XPS, XRD, and FTIR analysis, respectively. The presence of dominant sp3 hybridized carbons over sp2 was confirmed by 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopy. The plausible fluorescence mechanisms are also proposed. Additionally, a biodegradable bioplastic derived from corn starch was used to develop an N, Ca-co-doped CQDs@bioplastic composite in order to demonstrate how it may be used to produce down-conversion light emitting diodes and optical displays. The impact of CQD concentrations and pH sensitivity were investigated further.