Preparation of Wood-Based Carbon Quantum Dots and Promotion of Light Capture Applications

CQDs are a type of fluorescent nanocarbon material that possess excellent optical properties. They have a wide range of raw material sources, making them a versatile option for various applications. The use of fluorescent materials to enhance the solar energy capture capacity of chloroplasts has the potential to significantly improve natural photosynthesis. CQDs and N-CQDs were prepared from natural Salix wood powder using a simple, green, and environmentally friendly hydrothermal method. These materials can effectively capture ultraviolet (UV) light and were used for photosynthesis to enable chloroplasts to utilize UV light that cannot be absorbed by them. The chlorophyll content of leaves treated with CQDs and N-CQDs increased, with the N-CQDs 25 mg/L treated group showing a 35.6% increase compared to the untreated group. Additionally, the treatment of CQDs and N-CQDs positively affected the transfer of electrons from photosystem II, further enhancing photosynthetic activity. This study presents ideas for expanding the use of solar energy, optimizing the photosynthesis charge transfer pathway, and improving solar energy conversion efficiency.