An Overview on Carbon Quantum Dots Optical and Chemical Features

Carbon quantum dots are the materials of a new era with astonishing properties such as high photoluminescence, chemical tuneability and high biocompatibility. Since their discovery, carbon quantum dots have been described as nanometric high-fluorescent carbon nanoparticles, but this definition has become weaker year after year. Nowadays, the classification and the physical explanation of carbon quantum dots optical properties and their chemical structure remain matter of debate. In this review, we provide a clear discussion on these points, providing a starting point for the rationalization of their classification and a comprehensive view on the optical and chemical features of carbon quantum dots.

Automated summary

Carbon quantum dots are a new era material with remarkable properties, including high photoluminescence, chemical tuneability, and high biocompatibility. However, their classification and the explanation of their optical properties and chemical structure are still subjects of debate. This review aims to provide a clear discussion on these points, serving as a starting point for the rationalization of their classification and a comprehensive understanding of the optical and chemical features of carbon quantum dots.