Synthesis, Purification, and Characterization of Mercaptosuccinic Acid-Carbon Quantum Dots
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Authors
Miles, Deon
Nemcek, Rayna
Issue Date
2023-04-28
Type
Other
Language
en_US
Keywords
Scholarship Sewanee 2023 , University of the South , Carbon Quantum Dots , Mercaptosuccinic acid (MSA) , Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)
Alternative Title
Abstract
Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are carbon-based nanoparticles that are typically synthesized from citric acid (primary carbon source). In our research, we use alternative carbon sources, namely water-soluble thiols and polycarboxylic acids. For this project, mercaptosuccinic acid (MSA) and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) were used as the primary carbon sources. After their synthesis in a conventional microwave, these CQDs were thoroughly purified through centrifugation, fluorescent flash chromatography, and dialysis. Fluorescent flash chromatography displayed three distinguished fractions of our MSA-CQD samples: yellow, green, and blue in color. The purified CQDs were then analyzed using UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy to observe their structural and functional properties. The analysis of these nanomaterials determined their stability which can be applicable for their use as future biological and chemical sensors. Heavy metal ion sensing was performed, with fluorescent quenching observed with the addition of this metal ion. CQD samples were pH adjusted in a phosphate buffer, and it was noted that the emission wavelength and intensity of fluorescence was stable in, and well beyond, the physiological pH range. The quantum yield of the MSA-CQD fractions was also analyzed.
Description
Citation
Publisher
University of the South