Carbon dots are a class of carbon nanomaterials that exhibit unique properties such as multicolor emissions, photostability, low toxicity, and biocompatibility. These unique properties have enabled a wide range of applications ranging from cell imaging to photothermal therapy and photovoltaic applications. However, their properties and functionality still need to be improved in many aspects. One way of doing this is through doping and surface functionalization. Doping tunes the electronic properties of carbon dots while functionalization creates or changes surface states, thus influencing their solubility and applications. Here in, we demonstrate the tuning of electronic and optical properties of carbon dots via doping/co-doping with various atoms like B, N, and S etc. The functionality is demonstrated by modifying the surface of the carbon dots with different groups such as amine and carboxylic acid groups. Characterization will be performed through various techniques including X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (surface groups), Dynamic Light Scattering Spectroscopy (particle sizing), Transmission Electron Microscopy (particle size and morphology), UV-Vis Spectroscopy and Fluorescence Spectrophotometry (optical properties).

Improving the functionality of carbon dots via doping and functionalization

2019 Spring National Meeting

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