Large-Scale Preparation of Peanut-Bran-Derived Carbon Dots and Their Promoting Effect on Italian Lettuce

Abstract

In this research, we developed a simple, low-cost, and environmentally friendly method to prepare biomass carbon dots (CDs). We have obtained CDs with high yield, good water solubility, low toxicity, and excellent fluorescence performance by carbonizing peanut bran at high temperature. These CDs can be further used in agricultural production. We found that the peanut bran CDs had a dose−effect relationship on Italian lettuce growth. The fresh weight of the Italian lettuce cultivated under the appropriate concentration of CD solution was 24.3% higher than that of the control group. The contents of K, P, and N in the nutrient solution were decreased, demonstrating the significant improvement of the utilization rate of chemical fertilizers after CD treatment. Our work shows the considerable application prospects of as-prepared CDs in agricultural production.

An insight into the role of carbon dots in the agriculture system: a review

“…4E). 189 The abovementioned growth enhancement effects of CDs on various plants support their large-scale application in agriculture for enhancing crop growth and increasing agricultural yield.…”

Carbon dots derived from natural sources and their biological and environmental impacts

“…125 Lei et al used a simple carbonization method to successfully prepare peanut bran CDs, which showed great impact as a nanofertilizer in agriculture. 126 They found that the peanut bran CD solution effectively promotes the growth of Italian lettuce by increasing its nutrient absorption and significantly improving the utilization of chemical fertilizers. Similarly, photoluminescent carbon dots synthesized by thermal pyrolysis of the microalgae Spirulina were also reported as a fertilizer for stimulating agricultural plant growth.…”

“…125 Lei et al used a simple carbonization method to successfully prepare peanut bran CDs, which showed great impact as a nanofertilizer in agriculture. 126 They found that the peanut bran CD solution effectively promotes the growth of Italian lettuce by increasing its nutrient absorption and significantly improving the utilization of chemical fertilizers.…”

Milk-Derived Carbon Quantum Dots: Study of Biological and Chemical Properties Provides Evidence of Toxicity

“…There are a number of precursors that can be used to obtain CDs. Some of them are based on plants and seeds, such as bamboo [13], peanut [14], watermelon [15], sago waste [16], walnut [17], osmanthus fragrans [18], strawberry [19], and banana [10]. Organic compounds like urea, ascorbic acid, and glucose are also reported as a precursor for CDs [10].…”