Carbon Quantum Dots: Synthesis, Structure, Properties, and Catalytic Applications for Organic Synthesis

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs), also known as carbon dots (CDs), are novel zero-dimensional fluorescent carbon-based nanomaterials. CQDs have attracted enormous attention around the world because of their excellent optical properties as well as water solubility, biocompatibility, low toxicity, eco-friendliness, and simple synthesis routes. CQDs have numerous applications in bioimaging, biosensing, chemical sensing, nanomedicine, solar cells, drug delivery, and light-emitting diodes. In this review paper, the structure of CQDs, their physical and chemical properties, their synthesis approach, and their application as a catalyst in the synthesis of multisubstituted 4H pyran, in azide-alkyne cycloadditions, in the…