Sustainable carbon quantum dots from Vitex negundo leaves as a synergistic nanoplatform for triple object sensing and anticounterfeiting applications

Abstract

Carbon dots (CDs) are regarded as a 21st-century blessing due to the multiple applications that they contribute to society. The amazing characteristics of CDs have made them so ubiquitous around the world. Using a hydrothermal approach, we attempted to synthesize novel CDs from Vitex negundo leaves. After extensive characterization and analysis, it was found that the CDs developed not only have the basic characteristics of CDs, such as fluorescence, spherical shape with a diameter less than 10 nm, but are also highly stable under a variety of ionic concentrations, continuous photoirradiation, and long-term storage. The potential of the proposed sensor is spread over four environmental realms. The sensor tackled the first issue by detecting sunset yellow using an IFE-based fluorescence quenching technique with a LOD of 82.05 nM. The second is manganese ion sensing with a LOD of 1.25 nM using an electrochemical technique. The practical viability analysis and comparison to prior reported ones of both sensors has been found to be very effective and reasonable. Third, the ability of CDs to function as a pH sensor is explored and proven successful. The fourth potential is to shine as an anticounterfeiting agent that is both environmentally benign and safe. This work meticulously scrutinizes all four applications of synthesized CDs. The individuality of the work can be found in a variety of contexts. It is conspicuous in the precursor, manifold applications, sensitivity, evaluation and green procurement strategy.