Chem. J. Chinese Universities ›› 2025, Vol. 46 ›› Issue (6): 20250103.doi: 10.7503/cjcu20250103

• Review • Previous Articles    

Correlation Between the Photoluminescene Mechanism and Structure of Carbon Dots

LIU Yize1,2, LI Pengfei2, SUN Zaicheng2()   

  1. 1.College of Environmental Science and Engineering
    2.College of Chemistry and Life Science,Beijing University of Technology,Beijing 100124,China
  • Received:2025-04-07 Online:2025-06-10 Published:2025-05-14
  • Contact: SUN Zaicheng E-mail:sunzc@bjut.edu.cn
  • Supported by:
    the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2023YFB3810800);the National Natural Science Foundation of China(22272003)

Abstract:

As a novel class of zero-dimensional carbon-based nanomaterials, carbon dots(CDs) have demonstrated broad application prospects in bioimaging, optoelectronic devices, and environmental sensing due to their tunable luminescence, low toxicity, and versatile functionality. However, the luminescence mechanisms of CDs remain a central research focus owing to diverse synthesis methods, varied raw material sources, and complex composition-structure characteristics. The elusive nature luminescence mechanism has hindered the rational design and application of CDs with superior fluorescence performance. This article systematically investigates the correlation between the structural characteristics and luminescence mechanisms of CDs, with focused analysis on the roles of five core mechanisms: quantum confinement effect, effective conjugate length, surface-edge states, molecular states, and cross-link enhanced emission effects. The comprehensive analysis aims to provide theoretical guidance for the controlled synthesis and functional applications of CDs with superior fluorescence performance.

Key words: Carbon dots, Luminescence mechanisms, Carbon-based nanomaterial, Structural composition

CLC Number: 

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