Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) from organic acids

Abstract

An environmentally eco-friendly method of synthesis of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) was reported using pyrolysis of organic acids, viz., tartaric acid and ascorbic acid at 150-160 °C, which produce (GQDs) in the presence of NaOH. The heating time and effect of different pH on the formation of GQDs have been studied in detail to optimize the reaction conditions. The UV-visible absorption and normalized fluorescence spectra have been applied to analyze the optical and luminescent properties of GQDs. The particles size distribution of the GQDs obtained from different organic acids at different pH has been also determined. The microstructures and surface morphology have been studied by atomic force microscope (AFM).