Recent advances in the use of carbon dots in polymer coatings: a prospective review

As a new zero-dimensional carbon nanomaterial, carbon dots (CDs) have shown broad application potential in functional coatings in recent years due to their exceptional optical properties, low toxicity, excellent biocompatibility, ease of functionalization, and good thermal stability. In this review, we first briefly outline the synthesis methods and surface modification strategies for CDs. We then focus on exploring the performance applications and mechanisms of CDs within polymer coatings. As a nanofiller, CDs in polymer coatings offer multifaceted benefits, including corrosion resistance, mechanical properties, antibacterial activity, fluorescence, flame retardancy, and biocompatibility. Finally, the paper concludes with an outlook on the prospects and challenges for CDs in polymer coatings.