Síntese verde de pontos quânticos de carbono a partir de efluente da suinocultura

Abstract

This study proposes the synthesis of carbon quantum dots (BioC-dots) from the effluent of a swine farm in the state of Mato Grosso, using the microwave digestion method, evaluating the functionalization of nanoparticles using citric acid, urea, and glucose to enhance the properties of these particles and test their potential application in the agricultural sector. Through a set of characterization techniques, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), fluorescence and UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, and evolved gas analysis (EGA), the effectiveness of the synthesis process was confirmed. These analyses revealed the production of BioC-dots with diameters below 6 nm and emission in the range between 400 and 550 nm. The composition of the BioC-dots, assessed by different techniques, showed a predominance of carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen elements. The EGA technique revealed the partial transformation of the functionalizing agents citric acid and glucose into BioC-dots, while urea underwent a complete transformation. Additionally, the BioC-dots showed a positive impact on the biomass of corn and soybean plants, with more significant results in the latter, highlighting the influence of the type of crop on the treatment response. Toxicity tests conducted on fish embryos (FET) did not indicate adverse effects, suggesting the viability of using these materials in living organisms. The results position BioC-dots as promising candidates for application in the agricultural sector, highlighting their innovative potential and positive impact on plant production. Furthermore, these results also indicate the safety of using these materials in biological contexts.