Ultraviolet to blue blocking and wavelength convertible films using carbon dots for interrupting eye damage caused by general lighting

Abstract Our eyes are regularly exposed to ultraviolet (UV) and blue light emitting diode (LED) light-based devices. However, the blue light induces macular degeneration, optic nerve crush, eye strain, and increases reactive oxygen species, which negatively influence eye-related cells (photoreceptor and retinal pigmented epithelial cells). UV light is also harmful to humans. It induces photokeratitis, cataract, and ocular surface squamous neoplasia. Here, we present carbon dot films with different carbon dot contents, prepared by a simple method. The films exhibit strong UV and blue light absorption. The transmittance of carbon dot films is >70% in the visible region (>500 nm). The UV light blocking ratio of commercial blue blocking filter and carbon dot film using UV LED chips is 94.1% and 95.9% (40 wt%), respectively. The blue light blocking ratio of commercial blue blocking filter and carbon dot film using blue LED chips is 10.2% and 82.3% (40 wt%), respectively. These results indicate that the prepared carbon dot films have a UV blocking rate similar to that of commercial blue blocking filters and a much better blue blocking rate than commercial blue blocking filters. Therefore, they can be effectively used as UV and blue blocking films in various applications.