Bismuth-based quantum dots pioneering transformative breakthroughs in environment and energy sectors

Award of the 2023 Noble Prize to three quantum dots scientists raised the relevance of these materials in the material scientist community, which can lead to further research on these materials in the future. Bismuth, being a unique member of the periodic table from neighboring elements, offers exceptional features for a wide range of applications in diverse fields, including environment, energy, and health sectors. These features are enhanced when synthesized at a quantum scale owing to the additional quantum size effect. There are several methodss for synthesizing bismuth-based quantum dots (QDs) including hydrothermal, solvothermal, co-precipitation, liquid phase exfoliation, etc. These methods have pros and cons, which are discussed in this work., Specifically, the relevancy of bismuth-based QDs arise from its distinctive features in its individual form or composites. Individually bismuth-based QDs offer exceptional surface area, carrier mobility, and unparalleled photoresponse. When in composites, these prevent energy dissipation by preventing recombination of photogenerated charge carriers and robustly transfer them to the surface for application in photocatalysis, photovoltaics, photoreduction, and other processes. Along with the antibacterial application for the health sector, -based QDs have been employed for sensing, photothermal devices, and other such applications. A comprehensive and critical analysis has been presented in this work with a separate section on current challenges and future perspectives before concluding remarks.