Elementally Doped Carbonized Polymer Dots: Control of Optical Properties and Their Versatile Applications

Abstract

Carbonized polymer dots (CPDs) are a class of luminescent nanomaterials formed through cross-linking and polymerization. Owing to their excellent biocompatibility, ease of synthesis, good aqueous dispersion, high chemical stability, unique cross-linking structure, and modifiable surface properties, CPDs have attracted significant attention. However, pure CPDs exhibit certain limitations in terms of optical performance, particularly in terms of fluorescence intensity, phosphorescence intensity, and emission wavelength tunability, which may not meet the requirements of specific applications. To address these limitations, doping CPDs with various elements, such as nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and phosphorus (P) to modify their band structure and surface functionalization can significantly enhance their optical properties and photochemical stability, thereby expanding their application potential. This paper reviews the main synthesis methods for elementally doped CPDs, examines the effects of different types of elemental doping on their photochemical properties, and explores promising applications in optoelectronic devices, sensors, and catalysis. Finally, recent advancements in elementally doped CPDs are summarized, along with future development directions and challenges.