Synthesis of Carbon Quantum Dots Based on Hydrothermal Method and Its Application

Abstract

Recently, carbon quantum dots (CQDs), one of the newest “zero-dimensional” carbon-based materials, have attracted extensive attention from a wide range of researchers and scholars both at home and abroad. This is attributable to their special optical properties, photo-stability, biocompatibility, water solubility and low toxicity, which allow them to be used effectively in a variety of applications. As a result, various methods have been spawned to synthesize a diverse of different CQDs. Among all the synthesis methods, hydrothermal method is favored by the majority of researchers due to its controllable reaction conditions, low reaction energy consumption and high product yield. This paper will summarize the characteristics and principles of the hydrothermal synthesis method. On this basis, the paper further discusses the role of hydrothermal synthesis methods in modulating the fluorescence efficiency and surface structure of CQDs, and focuses on the use of CQDs for anti-counterfeiting materials, bioimaging, fluorescent sensors and electrode materials. Finally, this paper presents the problems in their development process and gives an outlook on their application prospects.