Luminescent Sulfur Quantum Dots: Synthesis, Properties and Potential Applications

Sulfur quantum dots (SQDs) represent a new class of luminescent nanomaterials. They have shown great potential in numerous application fields including sensing, cell imaging, photocatalysis, light emitting diodes and polymer nanocomposites, due to their unique composition, favorable optical properties, low toxicity, fine processability and low cost. This Minireview summarizes the recent research progress on the synthesis, characterization, properties and applications of SQDs, especially those synthesized from elemental sulfur. Critical yet unsolved issues in the synthesis and applications of SQDs are also discussed. In addition, an outlook for future research trends of SQDs is presented.