Carbon Quantum Dots in Ultraviolet Shielding Applications
Summary
Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have emerged as a versatile class of zero-dimensional nanomaterials distinguished by their strong, tunable absorption in the ultraviolet (UV) region, low toxicity and ease of synthesis from abundant carbon sources. Unlike traditional organic or inorganic UV absorbers, CQDs combine broadband UV attenuation with intrinsic photostability, making them attractive for applications ranging from personal care products to protective coatings. Their nanoscale dimensions confer high specific surface area, enabling surface functionalisation to tailor absorption onset, dispersibility in aqueous or polymer media and compatibility with existing formulations. Advances in understanding the relationship between core structure, surface chemistry and optical transitions have underpinned strategies to optimise UV-blocking efficiency while retaining visible transparency. By integrating CQDs into polymer matrices, textiles or biodegradable films, researchers have demonstrated multifunctional materials capable of simultaneous UV protection, antioxidant activity and potential antimicrobial effects. This convergence of tunable photophysics, robust chemical stability and sustainable production positions CQD-based UV shields as a promising solution to address increasing demands for environmentally benign, high-performance UV defence.
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Carbon Quantum Dots in Ultraviolet Shielding Applications publication trend
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Technical terms
Carbon quantum dot: nanoscale, quasi-spherical carbonaceous particle exhibiting size-dependent optical absorption and photoluminescence.
Ultraviolet shielding: mechanism by which materials absorb or scatter UVA and UVB radiation to prevent penetration.
Surface functionalisation: chemical modification of particle surface to introduce specific groups that tune solubility and optical behaviour.
Sun Protection Factor (SPF): standardised measure of a material’s ability to attenuate UVB radiation.
Polymer matrix: polymeric network used as a support to disperse and stabilise nanoparticles in films or coatings.
References
- Synthesis of modified carbon dots with performance of ultraviolet absorption used in sunscreen.. Optics Express (2019).
- Carbon Nanodots Synthesized from Dunaliella salina as Sun Protection Filters. C – Journal of Carbon Research (2020).
- Spectral Imaging of UV-Blocking Carbon Dot-Based Coatings for Food Packaging Applications. Coatings (2023).
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