Triphenylphosphine modified graphene quantum dots: spectral modulation for full spectrum of visible light with high quantum yield

Abstract

We report triphenylphosphine (P(Ph)₃) modified graphene quantum dots (P-GQDs) with high quantum yield (c) and excellent stability. The light energy absorbed by P(Ph)₃ groups can quickly and efficiently transfer to the GQDs through the C–P-(Ph)₃ bonds, resulting in a high φ. The obtained P-GQDs have a tunable photoluminescence wavelength from blue to red, and at the same time maintain a high φ, over 58%, with increase of permittivity of the solvents. The main mechanism of full-visible-light-spectrum modulation could be due to the energy loss and electron-donating decrease caused by P(Ph)₃ group–solvent interaction or relaxation.