Zn intercalation in carbon nanodots by electroplating process: a path towards Zinc-Enhanced Carbon Nanodots (CNDs)

This study investigates the intercalation of Zn²⁺ ions into Carbon Nanodots (CNDs) synthesized from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunches (OPEFB) using an electroplating process. The OPEFB-derived CNDs were produced through microwave-assisted carbonization and doped with Zn at varying voltages (3V, 6V, and 9V). Structural and optical characterizations (e.g., X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis)) confirmed successful Zn incorporation, indicated by a shift in the amorphous peak and a redshift in UV-Vis absorption. Zn intercalation enhanced electron delocalization, reduced band gap energy, and improved optical performance, suggesting potential applications of Zn-enhanced CNDs in optoelectronic and sensing devices.