Fabrication of methylated carbon quantum dot-based fluorescent films for highly sensitive and stable temperature probes

Due to their distinct physicochemical characteristics and outstanding biocompatibility, carbon quantum dots have shown to offer enormous potential in the field of temperature sensing. However, there is still much to learn about the mechanism underlying carbon quantum dots' thermal sensing capabilities, and developing incredibly precise thermometers based on it is still an enormous obstacle. Herein, we successfully fabricated carbon quantum dots with variable luminescence wavelength and temperature-sensitive properties by adjusting the ingredients to modify the composition of functional groups (-NH2, -OH, -COOH and -CH2OH) on the surface of quantum dots in a simple hydrothermal synthesis process, followed by encapsulation with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Subsequently, structural/optical characterisation and temperature-dependent studies were utilized for investigations into the quantum dot fluorescence mechanisms as well as the thermal sensing characteristics connected to surface functional groups, respectively. Notably, the designed red-emitting methylenated carbon quantum dot film probe displayed more linear segmented temperature sensing properties (R2>0.99), a wider temperature applicability range (20–160 °C), and high temperature reversibility (20–80 °C, at least 4 cycles). Finally, the mechanism by which functional groups affect the thermal characteristics of carbon quantum dots was addressed, and we hypothesized that intramolecular and intermolecular hydrogen bonding interactions are important factors affecting the thermal properties of carbon dots. This work presents great promise and theoretical guidance for the development of highly reliable carbon quantum dot temperature sensing systems. [Display omitted] •Carbon quantum dots/PVA probe was fabricated.•Optimal optical behavior & temperature response by tuning surface functional groups.•The probe presented outstanding temperature dependence and higher thermal stability.•Luminescence and thermal sensing mechanisms influenced by surface functional groups.•The probe exemplified the potential of CQDs as luminescent temperature sensors.