Illuminating Pollutants: The Role of Carbon Dots in Environmental Sensing
Naveen Thanjavur, Young‐Joon Kim
Abstract
The pursuit of cleaner environments and healthier ecosystems has driven the development of innovative strategies for detecting and mitigating toxic pollutants. Among emerging nanomaterials, carbon dots (CDs) have gained prominence due to their low toxicity, excellent biocompatibility, high fluorescence efficiency, and environmental sustainability. This review critically analyzes the transformative role of CDs in environmental sensing and remediation. Highlighting their versatile applications, including bioimaging, photocatalysis, and sensitive biochemical sensing, we examine how CDs support the next generation of pollutant detection and degradation technologies, such as contaminant adsorption, membrane filtration, and photocatalytic breakdown. Furthermore, we discuss advances in sensor architectures integrating CDs and outline pathways for their expanded use in environmental monitoring. By mapping the intersection of nanotechnology, environmental science, and sensor innovation, this review anticipates future developments that could redefine pollution control through the strategic deployment of carbon dots.