Electrocatalytic behavior of carbon quantum dots in sustainable applications: A review

Zero-dimensional (0D) carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have recently gained widespread attention due to their attractive features, such as photoluminescence, excellent conductivity, surface tuneability, ease of synthesis, low toxicity, high electroactive surface area, and eco-friendliness. These properties make them suitable candidates for sensing, imaging, solar cells, electrocatalysis, diodes, etc. Various approaches have been employed to synthesize CQDs, with the most explored being the microwave pyrolysis, arc-discharge method, hydrothermal process, and electrochemical method. The CQDs exhibit excellent physico-chemical properties, which aid them in electrocatalysis. Due to surface functional groups and the scope of modifications, the catalytic activity can be further improved. This mini-review summarizes the electrocatalytic applications of CQDs and modified CQDs, thereby providing an inclusive understanding of the electrocatalytic applications of CQDs in different areas.