Abstract
We introduce a facile and convenient method to isolate more than 80% carbon quantum dots (CQD), for the first time. The proposed method substitutes a lengthy conventional dialysis process. An organic solvent, n-butanol is used to extract CQD in a high yield with the cumulative particle size distribution at 2.6 nm. The polymer films were fabricated as a function of increasing content of CQD, and shielded full-band UV light. It is found that the presence of surface functional groups in the CQD creates a high level of dispersion in the polymer matrix and it can block >99% of UV light with just 10 mg of CQD. A plausible mechanism is proposed to explain the superior UV shielding properties of the polymer film and is confirmed by protection of a photo-degradable model dye. Due to being non-toxic and environmentally friendly, the CQD dispersed polymer film could be a promising material in the food packaging industry to protect UV sensitive foods.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 18312-18317 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | New Journal of Chemistry |
Volume | 42 |
Issue number | 22 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2018 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Catalysis
- Chemistry(all)
- Materials Chemistry