Molecular Insights into Carbon Quantum Dots: Structure, Properties and Applications
A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Nanoscience".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 July 2026 | Viewed by 1264
Editors
Interests: surface plasmon resonance; study of protein–ligand interactions via 2D and 3D techniques; protein- and polysaccharide-based colloidal drug carriers; surfactants
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Interests: carbon quantum dots; surface functionalization; structure–property relationships; photoluminescence mechanisms; kinetic modeling
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have emerged as a transformative class of zero-dimensional nanomaterials, captivating researchers across chemistry, physics and biology. Since their discovery, these ultra-small carbonaceous structures have redefined our approach to fluorescence and biocompatibility. Unlike traditional semiconductor quantum dots, CQDs offer low toxicity, exceptional photostability and tunable surface functionalities, making them indispensable in the transition toward sustainable nanotechnology. As we move deeper into the decade, the challenge remains to bridge the gap between their complex, often disordered, molecular structure and their macro-scale performance. Understanding the "molecular logic" behind their synthesis and behavior is crucial for the next generation of smart materials.
In advance, I would like to gratefully acknowledge the authors and reviewers who will participate in the elaboration of this Special Issue and who will contribute to the development of research based on the topic of the structure, properties and applications of carbon quantum dots.
The aim of this Special Issue is to consolidate a collection of high-quality manuscripts that provide a rigorous molecular-level understanding of CQDs. While the field has seen a surge in "trial-and-error" synthesis reports, this collection focuses on the structure–property relationships that govern their functionality. In line with the scope of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, we seek contributions that delve into the molecular mechanisms of fluorescence, the nature of surface states and the interactions between CQDs and biological macromolecules.
Suggested themes and article types for submissions to this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:
- Molecular Synthesis and Design: Bottom-up synthesis mechanisms and the role of molecular precursors in defining core/shell structures.
- Photophysical Investigations: Detailed studies on the molecular origins of photoluminescence, including TADF, phosphorescence and upconversion.
- Surface Chemistry and Conjugation: Rational functionalization for targeted drug delivery and the development of CQD-based molecular hybrids.
- Bio-molecular Interactions: Mechanisms of cellular uptake, intracellular trafficking, and the molecular basis of CQD biocompatibility or toxicity.
- Sensing and Diagnostics: Molecular-level engineering of CQDs for high-sensitivity detection of biomarkers, ions and environmental pollutants.
- Computational Modeling: Advanced molecular dynamics or DFT studies, provided they are integrated with experimental validation.
We look forward to receiving your contributions.
Dr. Ádám Juhász
Prof. Dr. Marek Wojnicki
Guest Editors
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- carbon quantum dots
- molecular structure
- photoluminescence mechanisms
- structure–property relationships
- surface chemistry
- electronic properties
- heteroatom doping
- synthesis strategies
- bioimaging
- sensing applications
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