Carbon dots (cds) have been an emerging carbon-based nanomaterial that has drawn attention due to their facile synthesis, distinct optical properties, and diverse applications. The synthesis of new carbon dots by various techniques including electrochemical oxidation, microwave treatment, and laser passivation that allow control of size, surface passivation, and emission behavior. Carbon dots manifest optical properties such as absorbance in the ultraviolet region and luminescence mechanisms, including photoluminescence, phosphorescence, chemiluminescence, and electrochemical luminescence which are of importance in sensing, imaging, and catalysis. The various applications of carbon dots are increasingly being explored more in diverse applications that include bioimaging, catalysis in hydrogen peroxide generation, in solar cells, drug delivery systems, light-emitting diodes. Cds, recognized for their excellent biophysical properties, present an appealing alternative to traditional quantum dots and organic dyes in applications ranging from biology to environmental science. The potential of cds, enabled by their simple synthesis and low levels of toxicity, currently extends to many other applications, such as biomedical, and optoelectronic, necessitates exploring the synthetic strategies, optical characteristics, and emerging applications of cds for their optimal utilization within scientific research and various technologies.

Keywords: Carbon dots, Quantum dots, Optical properties, Nanomateials, Photocatalysis