Characterization and physical properties of carbon-dots

Abstract

As new members of the “nanoparticle universe,” Carbon-Dots have been extensively characterized using varied analytical methods. Moreover, since Carbon-Dots exhibit interesting optical properties, numerous studies have aimed to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for the photophysical phenomena associated with the carbon nanoparticles. Below I only briefly summarize experimental techniques applied to characterize Carbon-Dots and the structural/chemical information generated by the measurements. A detailed discussion is also presented focusing on physical features of Carbon-Dots, particularly the intriguing luminescence phenomena, and representative studies designed to probe the underlying factors responsible for these properties. Physical processes aimed at modulating Carbon-Dots’ luminescence are additionally outlined.