Graphene quantum dot (GQD) : synthesis to cellular imaging

Owing to their unique properties, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have drawn tremendous attention in recent years as a novel series of nanomaterial. In this report, we first demonstrate the single-step synthesis of GQDs by utilizing pyrene as precursors and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) solution as hydrothermal media and investigate their structural characteristics and optical properties. We then examine the applications of GQDs in sensing and in-vitro fluorescence imaging in human breast cancer cell (MCF-7). Fluorescence spectra and UV–visible absorption were employed to evaluate the optical characteristics of GQDs. The microstructures and surface structure were investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Pyrene derived GQDs (P-GQDs) have been revealed to possess excellent optical properties in terms for highly excitable fluorescence band, large molar attenuation, high quantum yield and superior photostability, making them the preferred subject for various chemical and biological applications. Lastly, the sensing and bioimaging applications of P-GQDs, that leverage on their superior photoluminescence (PL) properties and low cytotoxicity are also demonstrated.Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering