Graphene quantumdots: In the crossroad of graphene, quantum dots and carbogenic nanoparticles

Abstract

The scientific and technological importance of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) is directly related to their
nanoscopic nature that endows remarkable photo-physical properties and colloidal stability in a variety of
solvents. GQDs combine characteristics arising from their graphitic structure, their carbogenic origin and their
quantum nature. They are considered as the environmentally benign alternatives of heavy metal based quantum
dots, given that not only are they synthesized following green strategies, but they also exhibit minimal toxicity.
GQDs are systematically explored in printing, energy harvesting, bioimaging, catalysis, optoelectronics and sensing
applications.