Graphene quantum dots: In the crossroad of graphene, quantum dots and carbogenic nanoparticles

The scientific and technological importance of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) is directly related to their nanoscopic nature that endows remarkable photo-physical properties and colloidal stability in a variety of solvents. GQDs combine characteristics arising from their graphitic structure, their carbogenic origin and their quantum nature. They are considered as the environmentally benign alternatives of heavy metal based quantum dots, given that not only are they synthesized following green strategies, but they also exhibit minimal toxicity. GQDs are systematically explored in printing, energy harvesting, bioimaging, catalysis, optoelectronics and sensing applications. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.