Graphene Quantum Dots

Graphene Quantum dots

Graphene Quantum Dots (GQDs) are a subclass of carbon-based nanomaterials that are composed of small, nanometer-sized fragments of graphene, typically ranging from 2 to 10 nanometers in diameter. These quantum dots possess unique electronic, optical, and chemical properties that arise from their reduced size and quantum confinement effects. GQDs exhibit strong fluorescence, tunable optical properties, high surface-to-volume ratios, and excellent electrical conductivity, which differentiate them from their bulk material counterpart, graphene.

When graphene is broken down into nanosized pieces, the properties of the material change significantly. This phenomenon, known as the quantum size effect, leads to the emergence of new optical and electronic characteristics in GQDs, making them ideal for a wide range of applications in fields such as electronics, photonics, medicine, and environmental sensing.

Properties

Fluorescence: GQDs exhibit strong photoluminescence with tunable emission wavelengths, which is one of their most prominent features. The fluorescence properties of GQDs can be controlled by adjusting their size, surface chemistry, and synthesis conditions.

High Surface Area: GQDs possess a large surface area-to-volume ratio, making them highly reactive and able to undergo functionalization with various chemical groups. This enables their use in a wide range of applications, from sensing to drug delivery.

Electronic and Electrical Properties: GQDs retain the excellent electrical conductivity of graphene, which makes them useful in electronic devices, transistors, and energy storage systems. Their quantum properties can also be exploited in photodetectors and photonic devices.

Biocompatibility: GQDs are considered to be biocompatible and non-toxic, which makes them suitable for biological and medical applications such as imaging, biosensing, and drug delivery.

Chemical Stability: GQDs exhibit excellent chemical stability, allowing them to retain their properties even in harsh environmental conditions, such as high temperatures or corrosive environments.

Tunable Optical Properties: The fluorescence emission of GQDs can be adjusted by varying their size, surface groups, and the nature of their synthesis process. This tunability provides flexibility in their use for a range of optical applications, including bioimaging and sensors.