Green synthesis of highly stable carbon nanodots and their photocatalytic performance

IET Nanobiotechnol. 2017 Jun;11(4):360-364. doi: 10.1049/iet-nbt.2016.0025.

Abstract

The present study reports a novel, facile, biosynthesis route for the synthesis of carbon nanodots (CDs) with an approximate quantum yield of 38.5%, using Musk melon extract as a naturally derived-precursor material. The synthesis of CDs was established by using ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, Dynamic light scattering, photoluminescence spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The as-prepared CDs possess an eminent fluorescence under UV-light (λex = 365 nm). The size range of CDs was found to be in the range of 5-10 nm. The authors further explored the use of such biosynthesised CDs as a photocatalyst material for removal of industrial dye. Degradation of methylene blue dye was performed in a photocatalytic reactor and monitored using UV-vis spectroscopy. The CDs show excellent dye degradation capability of 37.08% in 60 min and reaction rate of 0.0032 min-1. This study shows that synthesised CDs are highly stable in nature, and possess potential application in wastewater treatment.

MeSH terms

  • Carbon / chemistry*
  • Carbon / radiation effects
  • Catalysis
  • Coloring Agents / chemistry*
  • Coloring Agents / isolation & purification
  • Coloring Agents / radiation effects
  • Drug Stability
  • Green Chemistry Technology / methods*
  • Light
  • Materials Testing
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Nanoparticles / radiation effects
  • Particle Size
  • Photochemistry / methods*
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical / chemistry
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical / isolation & purification*
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical / radiation effects
  • Water Purification / methods

Substances

  • Coloring Agents
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical
  • Carbon