Exploring luminescent carbon dots derived from syrup bottle waste and curcumin for potential antimicrobial and bioimaging applications

In this study, we utilized a navel hybrid material, prepared by fusing fluorescent Carbon Dots SyCDs, derived from syrup bottles, with curcumin. This innovative approach not only offers significant advancements in antimicrobial activity and bioimaging but also represents a stride in sustainable and eco-friendly nanotechnology. The core of our study is the development of an efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally conscious method for synthesizing SyCDs. This is achieved by repurposing waste syrup bottles, thus addressing the pressing issue of plastic waste. The incorporation of curcumin, renowned for its biological properties, enhances the luminescent characteristics of SyCDs and augments their functionality. This combination overcomes the inherent limitations of curcumin when used in isolation. The hybrid material exhibits enhanced antimicrobial properties and proves to be a potent alternative to conventional fluorescent dyes for bioimaging, marking a substantial leap in the field of sustainable nanomaterials. Our work not only demonstrates the versatile applications of luminescent SyCDs in health and environmental science but also underscores the potential of sustainable approaches in addressing global environmental challenges. This study, represents a significant contribution to the domain of sustainable nanotechnology, highlighting the transformative power of integrating waste management with advanced material science. © 2024 Elsevier Ltd