Carbon dots as sustainable nanomaterials: Fabrication strategies, properties, characterisation, and applications: A systematic review
Year: 2026
Type: review
Abstract: This review discusses different types of carbon dots and synthesis methods, including hydrothermal, microwave, pyrolysis, electrochemical, and ultrasonic techniques. It highlights green synthesis using plant and biomass materials as eco-friendly approaches. CDs are characterized using techniques like UV-Vis, FTIR, XRD, TEM, SEM, XPS, photoluminescence and zeta potential. Recent applications in drug delivery, bioimaging, biosensing, heavy metal detection, environmental remediation, agriculture, food safety, photocatalysis and energy-related fields are comprehensively reviewed. However, challenges such as limited understanding of fluorescence, large-scale production, and clinical use. Future research should focus on controlled synthesis, red/NIR CDs, and sustainable production. Overall, CDs have strong potential for future applications.
Source: Carbon Trends
Authors: Santhi Sakthivel, Suseem SR
Institution: Vellore Institute of Technology University
Language: English
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,000
OpenAlex ID: W7167351533