Precursor-dependent structural diversity in luminescent carbonized polymer dots (CPDs): the nomenclature

Abstract

Carbon dots (CDs) have received immense attention in the last decade because they are easy-to-prepare, nontoxic, and tailorable carbon-based fluorescent nanomaterials. CDs can be categorized into three subgroups based on their morphology and chemical structure: graphene quantum dots (GQDs), carbon quantum dots (CQDs), and carbonized polymer dots (CPDs). The detailed structures of the materials can vary significantly, even within the same category. This property is particularly predominant in chemically synthesized CPDs, as their formation proceeds via the polymerization–carbonization of molecules or polymer precursors. Abundant precursors endow CPDs with versatile structures and properties. A wide variety of carbon nanomaterials can be grouped under the category of CPDs because of their observed diversity. It is important to understand the precursor-dependent structural diversity observed in CPDs. Appropriate nomenclature for all classes and types of CPDs is proposed for the better utilization of these emerging materials.

Carbon dot composites for bioapplications: a review

“…For instance, in Yan and co-workers’ study, glyoxylic acid-modified CDs (GA-CDs) were used as a FRET ratiometric fluorescent probe for the detection of Cu 2+ in aqueous solution. 388 Similarly, Chen et al also applied cyclam-functionalized CDs as a FRET nanoprobe for the detection of Cu 2+ and S. 2–389 In addition to the above examples, the detection of other important metal ions such as Ag + , Cu 2+ , Cr 6+ , and Pb 2+ has also been successfully realized with CD composite-based sensing platforms. 390–401…”

“…3 Structurally speaking, CDs are generally considered to possess carbonized cores (either crystalline or amorphous) with functionalized surfaces which could contain various functionalities such as carbonyls, carboxylic acids, hydroxyls, epoxides, amines, etc. 4–6 The nature and properties of CDs’ surfaces are easily influenced by the precursors used and synthesis methods adopted during the synthesis of CDs, 7,8 thus rendering CDs with the advantage of facile surface modifications. Syntheses of CDs are simple and versatile, which could be classified into two approaches, namely “top-down” and “bottom-up”.…”

Development of Fluorescent Carbon Nanoparticle-Based Probes for Intracellular pH and Hypochlorite Sensing

“…Figure S1C shows a sharp absorption peak at 290 nm and a broadband at 320-350 nm of m-PD CDs, corresponding to the π-π* transition of aromatic C=C bonds and n-π* transition of C=O and C=N bonds at the edge of the carbon lattice, respectively [37]. As compared to the fully carbonized m-PD CDs, the bright green emission originated from mPA CNPs could be attributed to the crosstalk of multiple luminescence centers, including molecular-state, crosslink-enhanced-emission-effect-related state, sp 2 subdomains (carbon core state), and surface state [38]. The product obtained from AA only emits weakly at 395 nm when excited at 255 nm, so we will not discuss it hereafter.…”

Ultraviolet phosphorescent carbon nanodots

“…Carbon nanodots (CNDs) as promising phosphorescence candidates develop rapidly 1 , 2 . Their relatively easy preparation process, unique optical properties, and high biocompatibility make them especially fascinating in the field of bioscience and technology 3 – 5 .…”