Synthesis Of Carbon Quantum Dots Research Articles

Concentration-Dependent Photoluminescence of Carbon Quantum Dots Useable in LED.

We synthesized carbon quantum dots (CQDs) using a solvothermal method with o-phenylenediamine as the carbon and nitrogen source. The sample was characterized by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. When we continued the optical characterization of the CQDs, we were surprised to discover that the colors of the synthesized CQDs changed with the dilution of the original solution. In addition, the photoluminescence (PL) of CQDs under 405 nm continuous wave laser excitation was also investigated. It was found that CQDs with different concentrations exhibited different PL spectra. In order to explain the mechanism of different PL spectra, chemical characterization of the CQDs at different concentrations was performed again, revealing that the color change is independent of particle size and surface functional groups. Systematic optical characterization and theoretical analysis indicate that this color change results from the interparticle distance. Furthermore, we investigated the PL lifetimes of CQDs using time-resolved PL measurements and found that the PL lifetime values change with the concentration of CQDs, which is attributed to nonradiative transitions. Finally, we fabricated warm white-light-emitting diodes with CQDs that are proportionally adjusted in concentrations. The investigation developed a simple and effective method to tune the color of CQDs by adjusting the concentration through dilution of the original solution, which provides a new approach for the preparation and regulation of multicolor CQDs.

UV and blue light cut-off filters using phosphorus doped carbon quantum dots extracted from raw egg yolk

Abstract Using raw egg yolk and phosphoric acid, a simple hydrothermal treatment for synthesizing carbon quantum dots (CQDs) has been developed for the manufacture of UV and blue light-blocking filters. Several samples with different doping ratios of phosphoric acid were prepared. Namely: reference (REF.), 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. The synthesized CQDs were embedded in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) to produce blocking-light films with desired optical properties. Six films were prepared, one of which was PVA alone, and the other five samples were the prepared CQDs, with different phosphorus doping levels, mixed with PVA in a 1:1 ratio. We aimed to test the ability of these films to block ultraviolet rays and blue light. The experimental results revealed that the prepared films were able to block the blue light, emitted from a 450 nm blue LED, with blocking ratios of 7%, 17.5%, 27%, 30%, 37% and 70% for the films: PVA alone, REF., 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%, respectively. Moreover, it was found that these phosphorus-doped CQDs films can prevent destructive UV light with substantial value reaching 86%. These results suggest that carbon dots, derived from raw egg yolk, can be effectively applied to block harmful UV and blue lights.

Preparation of coal-based carbon quantum dots and their fluorescence properties

In the field of life sciences, cellular movements play a significant role in influencing the activities of organisms. Current methodologies have limitations in the monitoring of cell recognition, biological macromolecule localization, cell labeling, migration, and biosensors. Although metal–semiconductor quantum dots are commonly used, they may pose toxicity risks to the lungs and kidneys. On the other hand, carbon quantum dots possess the unique optoelectronic properties of traditional quantum dots while exhibiting low toxicity, good biocompatibility, excellent photostability, and abundant raw material sources. In this research, carbon quantum dots were synthesized using the nitric acid oxidation method. The study investigated the effects of temperature, time, and the type of low-rank coal on the synthesis of carbon quantum dots. The structure and properties of the carbon quantum dots, specifically their fluorescence characteristics, were thoroughly analyzed. The proposed synthesis approach includes the nitration of coal macromolecules and the thickening of aromatic clusters through the Scholl reaction, leading to enhanced fluorescence quantum efficiency. The findings of this study indicate that the carbon quantum dots produced through this method demonstrate a high fluorescence quantum yield, making them ideal fluorescent agents for material preparation and offering potential applications in the field of life sciences.

Fruit waste-derived carbon dots with rhodamine B for the ratiometric detection of Fe3+ and Cu2.

A green and eco-friendly solvothermal approach is proposed for the synthesis of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) from watermelon rind. The as-prepared CQDs exhibited superior teal fluorescence in aqueous solutions, with a quantum yield of 13.9%. The CQDs and rhodamine B (RhB) were demonstrated to selectively react with Fe3+ and Cu2+, leading to a fluorescence (FL) quenching effect, which was successfully used for constructing "double-response-off" type ratiometric FL probes. A comparative study was conducted to assess the sensitivity and accuracy of ratiometric fluorescent probes, specifically those based on CQDs alone and in combination with RhB, for the selective detection of Fe3+ and Cu2+. By plotting the ratio of the differential fluorescence (ΔF) signals of CQDs to that of RhB against the practical application analyte concentration, the detection limits for Fe3+ (1.75 μM) and Cu2+ (0.43 μM) were markedly improved. The quenching mechanism was further explored, and the detection of Fe3+ and Cu2+ in surface water was demonstrated, showcasing the potential of efficient and effective nanosensors based on a static quenching effect. Futhermore, the addition of ascorbic acid can restore the fluorescence quenched by Fe3+. Therefore, in the presence of copper and iron, the ratiometric probe can demonstrate the ability to identify two different metals.

Controlling the optoelectronic properties of nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots using biomass-derived precursors in a continuous flow system

The synthesis of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) from high molecular weight biomass-derived precursors poses a significant challenge due to the complex molecular structures and low conversion efficiency. This work demonstrates a green, rapid, and sustainable continuous hydrothermal flow synthesis (CHFS) approach for nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots (NCQDs) from various biomass-derived precursors, including high molecular weight polymeric sources like chitosan, lignin, and humic acid. We find that the precursor structure significantly impacts the size of the fabricated NCQDs and their optical properties. Citric acid, a low molecular weight precursor, yields NCQDs with excitation-independent emission, higher quantum yields, and low non-radiative losses, while NCQDs derived from polymeric precursors exhibit excitation-dependent, red-shifted, and lower efficiency emission. Theoretical calculations, performed to understand the configuration and distribution of nitrogen dopants within the NCQD structure, show that pyridinic and graphitic nitrogen atoms exhibit a strong preference to aggregate near the centre of the edge of the NCQD and not in the vertices nor in the graphitic core, thus affecting the HOMO and LUMO, bandgap, and light absorption and emission wavelengths. The life cycle assessment (LCA) analysis highlights the green and scalable advantages of the CHFS process for producing NCQDs compared to batch methods, making it a sustainable and economically viable approach for large-scale NCQD synthesis from high molecular weight biomass-derived precursors. Hence, the combination of experimental data and theoretical calculations provides a comprehensive understanding of the structure-property relationships in these NCQDs.

A simple green synthesis of carbon quantum dots from Prunus Armeniaca and their application as fluorescent probes for the selective and sensitive detection of Cd2+ metal ion

Abstract This study used a hydrothermal approach to synthesis carbon dots (CDs) from apricot peel, which were then used as a probe for the selective and sensitive detection of Cd2+ ions. The synthesized CDs’ surface groupings, structure, shape, biological nature, and overall size were examined using standard characterization techniques. With a quantum yield of 22.1%, these CDs showed excitation-dependent fluorescence emission. In addition, Cd2+ ions were distinguished from other metal ions by a noticeable drop in fluorescence intensity. The fluorescence probe showed a linear response ranging from 0–300 μM and a detection threshold (DT) of 0.21 μM, indicating its effectiveness for Cd2+ detection. Furthermore, the CDs demonstrated the practical application by detecting Cd2+ ion in actual water samples.

Green Synthesis of Carbon Quantum Dots Using Barks of Ficus religiosa and their Application as a Selective Fluorescence Chemosensor

Green Synthesis of Carbon Quantum Dots Using Barks of Ficus religiosa and their Application as a Selective Fluorescence Chemosensor

Electrospun nanofibrous wound dressings with enhanced efficiency through carbon quantum dots and citrate incorporation

Nanofibers show promise for wound healing by facilitating active agent delivery, moisture retention, and tissue regeneration. However, selecting suitable dressings for diverse wound types and managing varying exudate levels remains challenging. This study synthesized carbon quantum dots (CQDs) from citrate salt and thiourea using a hydrothermal method. The CQDs displayed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. A nanoscaffold comprising gelatin, chitosan, and polycaprolactone (GCP) was synthesized and enhanced with silver nanoparticle-coated CQDs (Ag-CQDs) to form GCP-Q, while citrate addition yielded GCP-QC. Multiple analytical techniques, including electron microscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, UV–Vis, photoluminescence, X-ray diffraction, porosity, degradability, contact angle, and histopathology assessments characterized the CQDs and nanofibers. Integration of CQDs and citrate into the GCP nanofibers increased porosity, hydrophilicity, and degradability—properties favorable for wound healing. Hematoxylin and eosin staining showed accelerated wound closure with GCP-Q and GCP-QC compared to GCP alone. Overall, GCP-Q and GCP-QC nanofibers exhibit significant potential for skin tissue engineering applications.

Green Synthesis of carbon quantum dots for enhancing photocatalytic activity: Hydrogen/oxygen evolution and dye photodegradation

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have recently attracted attention across various fields due to their small size, high conductivity, fluorescence emission, low toxicity, and other desirable characteristics. In this study, highly fluorescent CQDs with an average diameter of 3.7 nm were prepared via microwave irradiation using a standard commercial microwave oven and glycerol as solvent. Several cation promoters were examined for CQD synthesis, with copper ions ultimately chosen for comprehensive characterization and application. The CQDs were impregnated onto both commercially available and microwave-synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated with respect to the hydrogen and oxygen generation. Under the employed conditions, the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) exhibited over 12 times higher efficiency than the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The enhanced OER activity is attributed to the high electronic conductivity of the small Cu doped CQDs@TiO2 (Cu-CQDs@TiO2) facilitating an efficient electron transfer for the OER . Visible light activity (λ ≥ 400 nm) was demonstrated by photodegradation of the indigo carmine (IC) solution used as a model pollutant. Irradiation in the presence of the Cu-CQDs@TiO2 photocatalyst resulted in complete degradation of the dye in less than 3 hours. The results presented here provide a promising methodology for designing high-performance photocatalysts based on environmentally friendly CQD syntheses. Crucial applications, from renewable energy production to environmental remediation, will benefit from strategies using the carbon abundance on Earth.

Carbon Quantum Dots with Highly Efficient Bandgap Emission for Electroluminescent Light-Emitting Diodes

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) feature bright and tunable photoluminescence, solution processability, and low toxicity, showing great potential in optoelectronics. The multicolor fluorescent CQDs were first fabricated as active layers in our lab, and then the high-performance electroluminescent warm white light-emitting diodes (LEDs) were obtained with the synthesized bright red CQDs. More significantly, through designing the triangular structure of the carbon core, fluorescent CQDs first achieved the narrow-bandwidth (∼30 nm) electroluminescent LEDs with appreciable stability, high color purity, and high luminescence performance. These results lay the foundation for the development of next-generation high performance displays based on CQDs. Here, we will report the large-scale synthesis of CQDs with near-unity photoluminescence quantum yield and the synthesis of red (625 nm) phosphorescent carbon quantum dot organic frameworks (CDOFs) with a quantum yield of up to 42.3% and realization of high-efficiency red phosphorescent electroluminescent LEDs. The LEDs based on the CDOFs exhibited a red emission with a maximum luminance of 1818 cd m−2 and an EQE of 5.6%. This work explores the possibility of a new perspective for developing high-performance CQD-based electroluminescent LEDs.References Yuxin Shi, Louzhen Fan, et al., Red Phosphorescent Carbon Quantum Dot Organic Framework-Based Electroluminescent Light-Emitting Diodes Exceeding 5% External Quantum Efficiency, Am. Chem. Soc. 2021, 143, 45, 18941–18951Ting Yuan, Louzhen Fan, et al., Carbon Quantum Dots with Near-Unity Quantum Yield Bandgap Emission for Electroluminescent Light-Emitting Diodes, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2023, e202218568.Fanglong Yuan，Louzhen Fan, et al., Engineering triangular carbon quantum dots with unprecedented narrow bandwidth emission for multicolored LEDs, Nat. Commun., 2018, 9, 2249. Figure 1

Hydrothermal synthesis of carbon quantum dots from Citrus limetta peels: Exploration of pH sensing, non-hemolytic activity and thermoluminescent properties

This study introduces a novel hydrothermal green method for synthesized carbon quantum dots (CQDs) using dried powders of Citrus limetta peels as a carbon source. The synthesized CQDs were evaluated for their photothermal response, pH sensing under various conditions and biocompatibility through non-hemolytic activity. CQDs had low crystallinity and an average size of 3 nm, ranging from 1 to 6 nm. CQDs have biocompatible properties, which makes them suitable for developing pH sensors. The study also revealed that the temperature of CQDs increases up to 37 °C under laser light irradiation of 808 nm, which might have potential applications in the biomedical field.

Eco-friendly and sustainable synthesis of carbon quantum dots from waste sulfuric acid of alkylation

Waste sulfuric acid of alkylation (WSAA) poses a challenge in industrial alkylation oil production due to its substantial yield and high treatment costs. This study introduces a novel hydrothermal method that ingeniously couples the treatment of WSAA with the synthesis of high-quality carbon quantum dots (CQDs), offering a cost-effective and controllable approach. Through this method, the particle size and surface functional groups of the resulting CQDs can be precisely regulated. The average particle size tunes from 17.97 nm to 2.42 nm via increasing the hydrothermal temperature, and nitrogen-containing groups can be introduced through adding nitrogen sources during hydrothermal process. The prepared CQDs exhibit notable performance in photocatalysis and heavy metal detection, such as CQDs modified graphite carbon nitride has improved photocatalytic degradation ability and Hg (II) detection ability. Additionally, the environmental impact of the proposed method is substantially minimized, demonstrating a smaller footprint on ecosystems compared to conventional industrial disposal processes. Moreover, the economic cost associated with the method is significantly reduced by approximately 48.4 %, further highlighting its efficiency. Utilizing WSAA as a raw material for CQDs not only facilitates the recycling and sustainable utilization of waste but also enables low-cost production of high-performance carbon materials, presenting a mutually beneficial approach.

Simultaneous synthesis of carbon quantum dots and hydrothermal biochar from corn straw through hydrothermal treatment

In the realm of efficient agricultural production, the conversion of large volumes of agroforestry waste into sustainable, high-value materials is imperative to address pollution, curb carbon dioxide emissions, and alleviate the burden of costly waste disposal. This study endeavored to address these challenges by concurrently synthesizing carbon quantum dots fluorescent nanomaterials and hydrothermal biochar through hydrothermal carbonization (HTC), employing corn straw (CS) as the primary precursor material. The synthesized CS-based carbon quantum dots (CS-CDs) exhibited a typical graphite structure, with a uniform particle size distribution and a particle size average of 2.28 ± 0.5 nm. Notably, CS-CDs displayed excitation-dependent photoluminescence (PL) behavior, remarkable water solubility, high fluorescence stability, and specific recognition capabilities for Fe3+ detection. The detection range of CS-CDs for Fe3+ spanned from 50 to 2000 μM, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 5.32 μM. Meanwhile, during the HTC process, the solid fraction yielded hydrothermal biochar (HC) at a rate of 57.60 %. HC was enriched with essential elements and held promise as an organic carbon fertilizer or premium-quality fuel, thereby realizing the multifaceted utilization potential of CS resources. This study offers valuable insights and innovative strategies for the high-value and multifunctional utilization of agroforestry resources, contributing to the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices.

Carbon quantum dots with ultra-high quantum yield for versatile turn-on sensor of gluten and cyanide Ions

In this work, we reported the synthesis of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) with high fluorescent quantum yield (90.7 %). These nanoparticles were applied in a turn-off/turn-on sensor able to detect cyanide ions. In this sensing strategy, Fe3+ ions were added to the aqueous suspension of CQDs to quench the fluorescence of the system, which was recovered from the presence of cyanide ions. Furthermore, a sensor array was developed using the LDA chemometric tool, to classify different species present in cookie formulations, including gluten. The turn-off/turn-on sensor proved to be sensitive and effective for detecting cyanide ions, with a detection limit of 3.77 ppm. This high sensibility and selectivity allowed quantifying the analyte in a real sample of tap water.

One-step microwave-assisted synthesis of fluorescent carbon quantum dots for determination of ascorbic acid and riboflavin in vitamin supplements

The synthesis of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) using chemical precursors with different organic groups is a strategy to improve optical properties and expand applications in several fields of research such as Analytical Chemistry. Ascorbic acid and riboflavin are widely used in human food supplementation, making quality monitoring of these vitamin supplements relevant and necessary. In this work, disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic, sodium thiosulfate and urea were applied to obtain CQDs through a single-step microwave-assisted synthesis. The CQDs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, zeta potential measurements, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The synthesized nanoparticles exhibited satisfactory and stable optical properties with luminescence at 430 nm, water solubility, and fluorescence quantum yield of 8.9 %. They were applied in the quantification of ascorbic acid and riboflavin in vitamin supplements. The fluorescence mechanisms observed were dynamic quenching for the CQDs/Cr(VI) sensor, followed by a return of fluorescence in the presence of ascorbic acid, and static quenching and inner filter effect in the interaction with riboflavin. Factorial designs 23 and 24 were used to optimize the analytical parameters. The CQDs/Cr(VI) sensor used in the determination of ascorbic acid, employing an on–off-on strategy, resulted in a linear range of 0.5 to 50 µg mL−1 and a limit of detection of 0.15 µg mL−1. The ratiometric fluorescence used in the determination of riboflavin resulted in a linear range of 0.1 to 7 µg mL−1 and a limit of detection of 0.09 µg mL−1. The analytical results for ascorbic acid were compared to the reference method of the Brazilian pharmacopeia, showing accuracy and precision according to the Brazilian Health Regulation Agency. Therefore, the synthesized CQDs were used to determine ascorbic acid and riboflavin in vitamin supplements, and the application of this nanomaterial can be expanded to different analytes and matrices, using simple and low-cost analysis techniques.

Machine learning-guided realization of full-color high-quantum-yield carbon quantum dots

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have versatile applications in luminescence, whereas identifying optimal synthesis conditions has been challenging due to numerous synthesis parameters and multiple desired outcomes, creating an enormous search space. In this study, we present a novel multi-objective optimization strategy utilizing a machine learning (ML) algorithm to intelligently guide the hydrothermal synthesis of CQDs. Our closed-loop approach learns from limited and sparse data, greatly reducing the research cycle and surpassing traditional trial-and-error methods. Moreover, it also reveals the intricate links between synthesis parameters and target properties and unifies the objective function to optimize multiple desired properties like full-color photoluminescence (PL) wavelength and high PL quantum yields (PLQY). With only 63 experiments, we achieve the synthesis of full-color fluorescent CQDs with high PLQY exceeding 60% across all colors. Our study represents a significant advancement in ML-guided CQDs synthesis, setting the stage for developing new materials with multiple desired properties.

Green synthesis of carbon quantum dots from Phragmites communis and its protective effect on Artemia salina under copper stress

Green synthesis of carbon quantum dots from Phragmites communis and its protective effect on Artemia salina under copper stress

In situ synthesis of carbon quantum dots on carbon felt fibers as a new solid-phase microextraction sorbent for chromatographic analysis of bisphenol A

In this study, an innovative and efficient solid − phase microextraction (SPME) sorbent was introduced based on carbon quantum dots (CQDs) modified carbon felt (CF) substrate. CF, due to its unique characteristics including high porosity, solvent durability (without swelling), and simple modification, it was proposed as an attractive platform for preconcentration purposes. To create an impressive adsorption capacity, the synergistic effects of CQDs and the carbonaceous structure of CF were profited off. CQDs were successfully synthesized on CF fibers by using an improved one-step hydrothermal method, and the resulting sorbent was referred to as CQDs@CF. Since bisphenol A (BPA) is an environmental toxin and can disrupt the endocrine system and potentially lead to cancer, highlighting the importance of detecting its presence. The prepared sorbent was used to extract bisphenol A (BPA) as a model compound from the real samples, followed by HPLC − UV analysis. Extraction parameters including desorption solvent type, and its volume, extraction, and desorption time, salting out effect and, solution pH were optimized. FESEM, EDX, FT − IR, and N2 adsorption–desorption were used to characterize the sorbent morphology, structure, and elemental contents. Under optimal conditions, the response linearity in the range of 0.05 − 500 ng mL−1 and detection limit at the level of 0.01 ng mL−1 were obtained. Additionally, the relative standard deviations (RSD) for newly prepared CQDs@CF (sorbent to sorbent repeatability) and a certain multi − used CQDs@CF (single sorbent repeatability) at a concentration of 100 ng mL−1 of BPA, were found to be 7.2 and 4.8, respectively.

Fluorometric Determination of Fe3+ Ions Using Green Synthesized Carbon Quantum Dots from Damask Rose flowers

Background:: Carbon quantum dot synthesis, characterization, and applications have drawn a lot of attention lately. The most effective carbon precursors for creating carbon dots with intriguing chemical and physical characteristics are found in natural materials. Objectives:: In this study, we introduced a new approach using a carbon dot system that possesses both absorption and emission capabilities, allowing for the development of a fluorometric assay to detect Fe3+ metal ions. Method:: Hydrothermally, the Damask rose Carbon Quantum Dots (DRCQDs) were synthesized using Damask rose flower petals and various characterisations were performed, such as UV-Vis, FE-SEM, EDS, and Elemental mapping. The fluorescence intensity of CQDs varies depending on the particular metal ion present in the medium, and the blue fluorescence was selectively quenched. Results:: For the purpose of detecting Fe3+ ions at an excitation of 330 nm, CQDs were employed, which produced an extensive emission spectrum between 280 and 400 nm by varying the excitation wavelengths. More than other heavy metals, Fe3+ ions were observed to have a stronger fluorescence quenching effect for the CQDs. According to spectroscopic measurements, the generated carbon dots have a detection limit of 1.11 μM and could determine Fe3+ ions in the range of concentrations from 0–80 μM. Conclusion:: This new fluorescent carbon dot technology offers a promising method for the quick and effective identification of Fe3+ ions, particularly in real-world samples.

Pulsed laser fragmentation synthesis of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) as fluorescent probes in non-enzymatic glucose detection

Pulsed laser fragmentation in liquid (PLFL) is one of the synthesis routes for producing high-purity carbon quantum dots (CQDs) with less toxic by-products in a straightforward system. The limited literature regarding the application of PLFL-synthesized CQDs motivated this study to exploit them as fluorescent probes in glucose sensing. The design of a fluorescent-based non-enzymatic glucose sensor was achieved by implementing CQDs and 3-aminophenylboronic acid (APBA) as fluorescent probes and glucose receptors, respectively. The CQDs were fabricated by PLFL through an Nd:YAG nanosecond laser, starting from the carbon powder dispersion in ethanol. Then, a laser-assisted post-modification process with oxidizing acid was implemented to produce water-dispersible CQDs for easy functionalization. Functionalizing these CQDs with APBA (CQDs-APBA) resulted in a blue-shifted fluorescence emission with a 35% quantum yield and high photostability. The CQDs-APBA exhibited a turn-off response at increasing glucose concentrations. This method offers good sensitivity with a linear detection range of glucose with a concentration of 0.165 to 8 mM and a detection limit of 165 µM. The applicability of this sensor to real analytes such as saliva obtained a satisfactory result with good reproducibility. This work proves that CQDs synthesized from PLFL can also be an alternative fluorescent probe for fluorescent-based sensing applications.