Synthesis and Functionalization of Luminescent Carbon Dots Derived from Biomass

This project is financed by the Kempe foundations

Research question

Due to the complexity of plant-based biomass, the current synthesis strategy for C-dots relies on trial-and-error methods and the resultant properties are not predictable. A crucial hindrance to utilizing C-dots in optoelectronic applications lies in their low photoluminescence quantum yield in the solid state and their poor dispersibility in solvents during device processing. Hence, investigating the phytocomponents derived from plant-based biomass as potential building blocks for C-dot synthesis and achieving the desired properties, is the key research question in this project.

Sustainability aspects

Synthesizing C-dots from renewable and abundant biomass sources will markedly diminish the reliance on mining resources and petroleum-derived chemicals. Developing C-dots to exhibit efficient emission and high dispersibility in environmentally friendly solvents will propel their practical utility in sustainable optoelectronic applications. Our ultimate objective is to contribute to the exploration of the economic viability of utilizing local natural biomass to produce advanced functional materials.