Hexagonal boron nitride quantum dots: Properties, preparation and applications

As a new type of quantum dots (QDs), hexagonal boron nitride quantum dots (BNQDs) exhibit promising potential in the applications of disease diagnosis, fluorescence imaging, biosensing, metal ion detection, and so on, because of their remarkable chemical stability, excellent biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity, and outstanding photoluminescence properties. However, the large-scale fabrication of homogeneous BNQDs still remains challenging. In this article, the properties and common fabrication methods of BNQDs are summarized based on the recent research progress. Then, the corresponding yields, morphologies, and fabrication mechanisms of these as-obtained BNQDs are discussed in detail. Moreover, the applications of these as-obtained BNQDs in different fields are also discussed. This article is expected to inspire new methods and improvements to achieve large-scale fabrication of homogeneous BNQDs, which will enable their practical applications in future. (c) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Hexagonal boron nitride quantum dots (BNQDs) show excellent properties and potential applications in disease diagnosis, fluorescence imaging, etc., but face challenges in large-scale fabrication. This article summarizes the properties, fabrication methods, and applications of BNQDs, aiming to inspire new methods for achieving homogeneous BNQDs at scale.