Indium Phosphide Quantum Dots as Green Nanosystems for Environmental Detoxification: Surface Engineering, Photocatalytic Mechanisms, and Comparative Material Insights

Abstract

Indium phosphide (InP) quantum dots (QDs) are emerging as eco-friendly alternatives to heavy-metal-based nanomaterials, offering tunable optoelectronic properties, low toxicity, and strong photocatalytic potential. This review explores their role as green nanosystems for environmental detoxification, focusing on surface engineering, structural optimization, and pollutant degradation mechanisms. The influence of core/shell architectures, ligand functionalization, and alloyed shells on charge carrier dynamics, colloidal stability, and oxidative resistance is highlighted. Emphasis is placed on photocatalytic applications such as dye and pesticide degradation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation under visible-light irradiation. Synthesis approaches—including hot-injection, microfluidic, and green methods—are discussed in relation to QD quality, environmental compatibility, and scalability. Comparative analysis demonstrates that InP QDs rival or outperform materials like CdSe/ZnS, TiO₂, and CuInS₂ in terms of photostability, selectivity, and environmental safety. This is the first comprehensive review specifically addressing InP QDs in environmental detoxification. It integrates materials chemistry, photocatalytic function, and benchmarking insights to offer a framework for designing safe and effective InP-based remediation technologies.