Houttuynia cordata-DES carbon quantum dots for Cr6+ detection and biological applications

Background CQDs are an ideal platform material that integrates excellent optical properties, superior biosafety, flexible, and adjustable chemical properties. They serve as a bridge connecting nanotechnology with fields such as life sciences, environmental energy, and more. Methods In this study, Hc -DES-CQDs based on natural deep eutectic solvents and Houttuynia cordata were successfully prepared. Results The prepared Hc -DES-CQDs exhibits strong blue fluorescence and excellent photostability. The detection of trace Cr 6+ under acidic and alkaline conditions can be realized by Hc -DES-CQDs, and also successfully applied to practical environmental water samples. Spectral analysis reveals that Hc -DES-CQDs exhibits emission behavior related to excitation, with a quantum yield of approximately 17.3%. The Hc -DES-CQDs demonstrated excellent antibacterial and free radical scavenging effects (such as DPPH, ·OH). Conclusions Therefore, the Hc -DES-CQDs has potential applications in the analysis and combating of cellular oxidative stress. Graphical abstract