One-step synthesis of surface passivated carbon nanodots by microwave assisted pyrolysis for enhanced multicolor photoluminescence and bioimaging

Strong photoluminescent carbon nanodots (C-dots) were synthesized by one-step microwave assisted pyrolysis of glycerol in the presence of 4,7,10-trioxa-1,13-tridecanediamine (TTDDA). The formation and surface passivation of C-dots were accomplished simultaneously. The obtained C-dots exhibited excellent biocompatibility and preeminent multicolor photoluminescent properties for bioimaging.