Tuning photoluminescence of boron nitride quantum dots via surface functionalization by femtosecond laser ablation

Abstract

• Boron nitride quantum dots with tunable photoluminescence were synthesized. • The photoluminescence of quantum dots originates from triple Carbene zigzag edges. • Carboxyl group on Carbene zigzag edges results in the redshift of emission. Tuning the Photoluminescence (PL) properties of boron nitride quantum dots (BNQDs) is crucial for determining PL mechanism and subsequently obtaining BNQDs with intense and desired PL emission. Here, we propose a facile one-step method to synthesize and functionalize BNQDs with tunable PL from ultraviolet to green region using femtosecond laser ablation in organic solution. Detailed characterization suggests that carbene zigzag edges are formed on the surface of BNQDs and result in their effective emission. The emission colors for the BNQDs redshift by increasing content of carboxyl group on the carbene zigzag edges. This work presents a promising strategy for synthesis and functionalization of BNQDs and provides a deeper understanding of the origin of their PL.