Microwave-assisted synthesis of quantum dots

Quantum dots (QDs) are tiny nanometer-sized (2–10 nm) hybrid or pure materials with outstanding novel properties, making them fascinating and emergent candidates for novel and special applications in numerous research fields. As developing members of QDs, carbon (especially, graphene and carbon QDs) and semiconductor QDs have fascinated due to their exceptional properties, adaptable surface, unique size, and biocompatibility with nanotechnology. In this chapter, a complete overview has been given on the potential and achievements in the arena of semiconducting and carbon QDs prepared by microwave (MW)-assisted synthesis process only. It summarizes MW-assisted synthesis of carbon and semiconducting QDs. The MW-aided method for QD fabrication has several advantages, including less reaction time, uniform circulation of energy inside the reaction container, environmentally benign, energy conservation, highly reproducible, and exceptional control over experimental limits. The potential and achievements of utilizing MW-aided heating methods have been discussed along with the latest improvements in synthesis by MW methods.