Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are receiving increasing attention due to their tunable redox activity, abundant surface functional groups, and excellent aqueous dispersion. However, their low quantum yield remains a significant impediment to their synthesis and practical application. In the present work, cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were utilized as precursors for the optimized hydrothermal synthesis of CQDs. Subsequently, the synthesized CQDs were electrodeposited onto a carbon-coated surface. The influence of hydrothermal temperature and time on the quantum yield and electrochemical properties of CQDs was systematically explored. The successful synthesis of CQDs displayed an average particle size of 5 nm, approximately. The quantum yield was enhanced from 14.35 % to 23.7 % as the hydrothermal temperature increased from 180 °C to 230 °C. Additionally, the electrochemical properties of the composite films were investigated. Electrochemical assessments demonstrated an increase in specific capacitance from 60.4 mF·cm−2 to 65.2 mF·cm−2 with an elevation in temperature from 180 °C to 210 °C. Remarkably, the CQDs displayed higher e CQDs, showcasing their substantial potential for supercapacitor applications.
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