Work

Ginkgo-derived carbon quantum dots as a novel tracer for water seepage detection in grottoes

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Water seepage within grottoes threatens structural stability and long-term conservation. Tracer method is effective for water seepage but are rarely applied in grottoes due to the potential impacts of conventional tracers on rocks. In this study, carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were synthesized on a large scale via a hydrothermal method using Ginkgo biloba leaves as a precursor. The physicochemical properties of the CQDs, their interactions with rock, and their migration behavior in water were systematically investigated. The synthesized CQDs exhibited strong fluorescence, excellent hydrophilicity, and negligible chemical interaction with rock substrates. The migration capacity was comparable to fluorescein sodium salt and superior to rhodamine B, indicating high mobility and recovery efficiency in typical rocky environments. Owing to low cost, high fluorescence intensity, good aqueous mobility, and non-invasive nature, the CQDs are promising tracers for identifying seepage pathways in grottoes and supporting seepage damage prevention and control.

Source: npj Heritage Science

DOI: 10.1038/s40494-026-02344-7

Authors: Bo Sun, Wentao Shi, Fenyan Ma, Ningbo Peng, Jumeng Wei

Institutions: Shanghai University, Lanzhou University of Technology, Huai'an University, Lanzhou University

Language: English

Topic: Carbon and Quantum Dots Applications

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University of Technology, State Administration of Cultural Heritage

OpenAlex ID: W7130949680