Carbon quantum dot preparation and application to detecting active ingredients in traditional Chinese medicine

Abstract Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are fluorescent carbon nanomaterials that have been applied to biology, medicine, and optoelectronics, owing to their significant advantages such as simple synthesis methods, low cost, and widely available sources of raw synthesis materials. This review summarizes CQD preparation methods, which include hydrothermal and microwave-assisted synthesis methods, as well as separation methods such as centrifugation, dialysis, and filtration. Additionally, we review the application of CQDs in the detection of active ingredients, primarily phenolic compounds, in traditional Chinese medicine. We also discuss the quenching mechanism of CQD fluorescence using the active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine. Limitations such as insufficient test selectivity, weak fluorescence intensity, and an unclear quantitative relationship between preparation methods and properties should be resolved for the efficient use of CQDs to detect active ingredients in Chinese medicine.