Photocatalytic materials modified with carbon quantum dots for the degradation of organic pollutants under visible light: A review

In recent years, carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have received widespread attention owing to their non-toxicity, sustainability, excellent photostability, and intrinsic photoluminescence properties. In particular, CQDs have attracted considerable interest for visible-light-driven photocatalysis because of their excellent electron transfer characteristics and high light capture efficiency. Many studies have reported CQDs/photocatalyst composite systems constructed to make full use of the solar spectrum, improving the ability of photocatalytic materials to degrade organic pollutants. Here, we review the recent research on CQDs-based photocatalysts, and their ability to remove environmental pollutants, with a special emphasis on degradation mechanisms. Several improvements in the catalytic response of CQDs to visible light are also included. In addition, we discuss the aspects that should be considered to construct composite materials based on CQD characteristics and the potential applications of CQD-based photocatalysts for efficient utilization of visible light.