A review on the role of graphene quantum dots and carbon quantum dots in secondary-ion battery electrodes

[Display omitted] •Carbonaceous quantum dots boost the electrochemical properties of secondary-ion batteries.•The application of these QDs is reviewed in lithium-, sodium-, potassium-, aluminum-, zinc-ion batteries, and lithium-sulfur batteries.•The suggested mechanisms for this improvement are reviewed and described.•Quantitative investigation of the effect of CQDs on enhancing the capacity. Developing advanced electrode materials is currently crucial for elevating the capacity and energy density of secondary-ion batteries. Among the plenty of candidates, quantum dots (QDs), especially carbon dots (CDs) and graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have shown promising results to achieve this aim. CDs and GQDs are able to solely or in combination with other electrode materials, provide excellent electrochemical properties. Regarding the literature, the addition of these carbonaceous QDs to the electrode materials and fabricating composite electrode materials is able to remarkably enhance the capacity of the probing devices. Therefore, in this review, firstly an introduction to the role of CDs and GQDs in secondary-ion batteries is given. Then, the application of these QDs is reviewed in lithium-, sodium-, potassium-, aluminum-, and zinc-ion batteries as well as lithium-sulfur batteries. Finally, a conclusion is indited and the outlook of this topic is described.