Application
Hydroxylated graphene quantum dots (HQGDs) are a new application of carbon materials, leveraging the unique properties of graphene derived from graphite, a crystalline form of carbon. These quantum dots are engineered at the molecular level to exhibit fluorescence, making them valuable in a range of applications, including bioimaging, biosensing, and as catalysts. The structure of graphene layers, characterized by strong covalent bonds and defined by their arrangement into tight, single-layer sheets, is key to the exceptional electrical conductivity and stability of HQGDs. These quantum dots capitalize on carbon's ability to form stable covalent bonds with other elements, offering a versatile platform for developing advanced materials with potential uses in energy storage and conversion, optoelectronics, and nanomedicine. By hydroxylating the edges of graphene quantum dots, their solubility and chemical reactivity are enhanced, expanding the possibilities for integration into various technological applications.