Carbon quantum dots
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Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) and bioinspired photonic nanomaterials have emerged as promising multifunctional platforms for a wide range of applications in optoelectronics, nanomedicine, biosensing, fluorescence imaging, and photodynamic therapy. CQDs are nanoscale carbon-based materials characterized by unique optical and electronic properties, including size-dependent photoluminescence, high photostability, excellent water solubility, low cytotoxicity, and remarkable biocompatibility. These characteristics make them attractive alternatives to conventional semiconductor quantum dots for both technological and biomedical applications. Inspired by natural photonic systems such as photosynthetic light-harvesting complexes, rhodopsin-based photoreceptors, butterfly wings, and bioluminescent organisms, researchers have developed advanced nanostructures capable of efficient photon capture, energy transfer, and photoinduced charge separation. Recent advances in synthesis techniques, including hydrothermal, solvothermal, microwave-assisted, and green synthesis approaches, have enabled precise control over the size, surface chemistry, and optical properties of CQDs. Functionalization and heteroatom doping further enhance their photophysical performance and application versatility. In optoelectronics, CQDs have been incorporated into photodetectors, solar cells, light-emitting diodes, and flexible electronic devices due to their tunable emission characteristics and efficient charge transport properties. In the biomedical field, CQDs are increasingly utilized for targeted drug delivery, bioimaging, biosensing, and photodynamic therapy because of their excellent fluorescence behavior and biological compatibility. Furthermore, bioinspired photonic nanomaterials are being explored for artificial photosynthesis and sustainable energy conversion systems, where efficient light harvesting and electron transfer are critical. This review highlights recent developments in the synthesis, photophysical properties, and multifunctional applications of CQDs and related bioinspired photonic nanomaterials, while discussing current challenges and future opportunities for the development of intelligent nanophotonic and bioelectronic technologies.
Abstract: Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) and bioinspired photonic nanomaterials have emerged as promising multifunctional platforms for a wide range of applications in optoelectronics, nanomedicine, biosensing, fluorescence imaging, and photodynamic therapy. CQDs are nanoscale carbon-based materials characterized by unique optical and electronic properties, including size-dependent photoluminescence, high photostability, excellent water solubility, low cytotoxicity, and remarkable biocompatibility. These characteristics make them attractive alternatives to conventional semiconductor quantum dots for both technological and biomedical …
Published in International Journal of Photochemistry and Photochemical Research · Vol. 4, Issue 2, 2026 · pp. 16–24 Read article