Development of Graphene Quantum Dots by Valorizing the Bioresources – A Critical Review

Abstract

Graphene Quantum Dots (GQDs) are carbon-based, nanoscale particles that display remarkable physical and organic properties. They are chemically and physically stable and eco-friendly due to their non-toxic and biologically inert nature. Various bioresources are used to synthesize GQDs to ensure biosafety and cost-effectiveness. In this work, a critical review has been done by focusing on top-down and bottom-up synthesis strategies. GQDs by valorizing various bioresources like bam-boo, neem leaves, mango leaves, paper fibers, rice husk, starch, honey, wood charcoal, coffee grounds, corn powder, and lime oil extract is highlighted in the present review. State-of-the-art and future outlooks on the development and advancement of GQDs applications are also being addressed. Based on the surveyed literature, GQDs provide extensive use in various areas like bioimaging, nanomedicine, photocatalysis, lightemitting diodes, solar cells, and sensors.

Graphene quantum dot-porphyrin/phthalocyanine multifunctional hybrid systems: from interfacial dialogue to application

“…34,[80][81][82][83] Graphene-based quantum dots (GQDs) have been comprehensively explored due to their desirable attributes such as facile, eco-friendly synthesis, low cost, nontoxicity, good biocompatibility, 36,84,85 high stability, controllable chemical functionality, water dispersibility, surface grafting, stable photoluminescence, 73 robust chemical inertness, 26 excellent electrical, and optical properties, abundant functional groups (e.g., hydroxyl, amino, and carboxyl), electron mobility, and huge surface area, endowing them immense potential applications in the optical, 86 energy, 87 electronic, and biomedical fields. 88,[89][90][91][92][93][94][95][96] Owing to their quantum confinement and special edge effects, GQDs show distinct fluorescent properties and physical and chemical properties. 32,33,[97][98][99][100] The size of their π-conjugated regions and their surface/edge structures regulate their optical properties, while maintaining their anisotropic nature, i.e., lateral dimensions greater than their height.…”

“…, hydroxyl, amino, and carboxyl), electron mobility, and huge surface area, endowing them immense potential applications in the optical, 86 energy, 87 electronic, and biomedical fields. 88,89–96…”