Multifunctional room-temperature phosphorescent carbon dots for relative humidity determination and information encryption

The relative humidity (RH) determination is crucial in many fields. Based on the phosphorescent properties of room-temperature phosphorescent (RTP) carbon dots, the RTP carbon dots as a probe are expected to be used to rapidly detect relative humidity. In this study, matrix-free room-temperature phosphorescent N-doped carbon dots (N-CDs) were successfully prepared from urea, succinic acid, and acrylamide using a hydrothermal method. The as-synthesized N-CDs had good biocompatibility and water solubility. The N-CDs emitted blue fluorescence and green phosphorescence. Moreover, the N-CD powder exhibited stable phosphorescence with a phosphorescence lifetime of 158 ms (afterglow time to the naked eye for ~7 s). Because H2O molecules affected the afterglow time, the as-prepared N-CD test paper for the first time could be applied as a probe to monitor RH, the afterglow time of the N-CD test paper is linearly related to the RH (y = −0.0729x+7.042, R2 = 0.998) and the RH detection range is 0%–85%. And the results were consistent with those obtained using a hygrometer. In addition, the N-CD solution could also be used as an encryption ink in the advanced information security field. [Display omitted] •A one-step hydrothermal process produced room-temperature phosphorescent N-CDs.•N-CD powder exhibited stable room-temperature phosphorescence.•N-CD-based test paper was firstly applied to monitor RH and exhibited little relative error.•N-CD solution can act as a security ink for information printing and encryption.