Photocatalytic performance of novel super-hydrophilic carbon quantum dots/Fe(NO3)3 composites for catalytic applications

This study presents the development of a new carbon quantum dot/ferric nitrate (CQD/Fe(NO₃)₃) composite featuring super-hydrophilic and fluorescent characteristics tailored for efficient photocatalytic applications. The material was synthesized through a rapid microwave-assisted process using different ratios of citric acid and ferric nitrate. Structural and morphological evaluations confirmed the successful formation of uniformly distributed CQDs on Fe(NO₃)₃ flakes, with surface functional groups contributing to excellent water dispersibility and biocompatibility. Among the prepared samples, the 3:1:1 CQD/Fe(NO₃)₃ composite displayed pronounced blue luminescence, a contact angle below 10°, and outstanding photocatalytic activity, achieving 92% degradation of methyl orange under visible light within 30 min. The distinctiveness of this work arises from the creation of a super-hydrophilic, fluorescent CQD/Fe(NO₃)₃ material synthesized via an ultrafast microwave route—a combination not previously reported. Its rare blend of extremely low contact angle, strong luminescence, and superior visible-light degradation efficiency demonstrates the composite’s advanced multifunctional performance. Overall, the material shows strong promise for environmental remediation and potential bio-related applications.