Carbon Quantum Dots for the Efficient Degradation of Organic Contaminants

Abstract

Organic contaminants, such as dyes, agricultural residues, and pharmaceutical drugs, are a major environmental and human health problem worldwide. Recently, scientists have introduced a number of synthetic approaches, including physicochemical and biological, for improved management that is both ecologically friendly and economically feasible. Over the past few years, carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have gained significant attention due to their notable and well-defined properties, carbon-based, metal-free photocatalytic arrangements have earned considerable attention, especially for their potential to degrade various organic contaminants. A variety of nanomaterials between 2 and 10 nm particle size exhibit unique optoelectrical properties and are among the numerous classes of catalytic quantum dots. This chapter summarizes the various sources of organic pollutants and their negative impact on flora and environmental health. It also discusses the electrochemical and optical properties of CQDs. Furthermore, the chapter discusses the use of CQDs to detect agrochemical residues such as herbicides and pesticides. © 2025 Wiley-VCH GmbH.