Hybrid architectures based on noble metals and carbon-based dots nanomaterials: A review of recent progress in synthesis and applications

Abstract Recently, hybrid architectures are extensively developed in environment and energy field with outstanding and multifunctional property to make up the drawbacks of “less efficient” single-component nanomaterials. Thereinto, noble metals (NMs) are rationally integrated with carbon-based dots (CDs) as one of the most commonly pursued nanohybrids, which can synergize their respective strengths after combining properties such as electronic property, up-conversion ability and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) and exhibit enhanced features in the diverse applications. Herein, this review focuses on the synthetic methods, physicochemical characterizations and recent progress in applications of noble metal/carbon dots nanohybrids (NMs/CDs). Specifically, (i) synthetic methods of NMs/CDs nanohybrids are concluded, which are different from the synthetic methods of NMs or CDs single component and have not been systematically concluded. It can help guide the NMs/CDs nanohybrids control synthesis for obtaining target materials accordingly. (ii) physicochemical characterizations of NMs/CDs nanohybrids are briefly summarized. (iii) applications of NMs/CDs nanohybrids in environment field (pollutants detection and treatment) and energy field (water splitting, oxygen reduction reaction and methanol oxidation reaction) are summarized. In particular, the mechanisms and synergistic effect between the two components in these applications are emphasized. Finally, the limitation and prospects of NMs/CDs in remaining issues are proposed for further development of these nanohybrids.