Kilogram-scale synthesis of carbon quantum dots for hydrogen evolution, sensing and bioimaging

摘要

The development of large-scale synthetic methods for high quality carbon quantum dots(CQDs) is fundamental to their applications.However,the macroscopic preparation and scale up synthetic of CQDs is still in its infancy.Here,we report a facile,green,kilogram-scale synthesis of high quality fluorescent CQDs derived from poplar leaves via a one-step hydrothermal method.Notably,the throughput of CQDs can reach a level up to as high as 1.4975 kg in one pot.The structure and properties of the as-prepared CQDs were assessed through TEM,XRD,XPS and various spectroscopic methods.The obtained high quality CQD s with a photoluminescent quantum yield of 10.64% showed remarkable stability in aqueous media,rich functional groups,high photostability,consistent photoluminescence within biological pH range and low cytotoxicity.On account of these good properties,we demonstrated the multifunctional application to electrocatalytic water splitting,Fe^3+ sensing and bioimaging.It showed remarkable electrocatalytic activity,Fe^3+ sensitivity and good biocompatibility.This study provides a green,facile,inexpensive and large-scale method for producing high quality CQDs,which provides application value for large-scale production of CQDs.