Synthesis of Fluorescent Carbon Quantum Dots from Dried Lemon Peel for Determination of Carmine in Drinks

Carbon quantum dots(CQDs) with a quantum yield of 11% were synthesized via a simple, low-cost and green hydrothermal treatment using dried lemon peel as carbon source. The obtained CQDs showed a strong emission at the wavelength of 505 nm with an optimum excitation of 425 nm. Carmine with maximum absorption wavelength at 508 nm could selectively quench the fluorescence of CQDs. Based on this principle, a fluorescence probe was developed for carmine determination. The quenching mechanism of CQDs was elucidated. A linear relationship was found in the carmine concentration range of 0.20-30.00 mg/L with the detection limit(3 sigma/k) of 0.16 mg/L. Satisfactory results were achieved when the method was applied for the determination of carmine in soft drinks.