Carbon Quantum Dot from Areca Husk as an efficient Photosynthetic Enhancer for Sustainable Agriculture

Carbon Quantum dots (CQDs) are nanostructured materials that have gained immense application in the field of agriculture. They have unique properties because of their less toxicity and environmental stability be it as a growth enhancer or as an antibiotic. The synthesis of carbon quantum dots from areca husk here, exemplifies a novel approach, offering environmentally friendly and less toxic nanomaterials that may revolutionize agricultural practices. This work highlights synthesis of carbon quantum dots from areca husk using hydrothermal method. In this study, characterization through UV spectroscopy clearly indicated the fluroscent property of the syntheised CQDs. FTIR characterization showed the presence of the CO(carbonyl) and OH (Hydroxyl) groups present and emphazising on the antimicrobial property of CQDS. XRD analyses highlighted that 97.5% of the sample had crystalline structure and 2.5% was amorphous. CQDs treated seeds showed healthy seedling growth with 7.682mg/g of cholorophyll content being highest in corn whereas11.42mg/g in wheat compared to other treatments emphasising the increase in photosynthetic efficiency. The integration of CQDs presents a promising avenue for revolutionizing modern agriculture towards greater sustainability and potential for improved yield.