New generation of quantum dots born for rapid removal of biological pollutants

Iranian researchers succeeded in introducing a new group of doped quantum dots as relatively green nanophotocatalysts for rapid and effective degradation of dye pollutants. Using the achievements of this research and quantum dots of zinc sulfide group, a new generation of nanoparticles can be introduced to rapidly and effectively remove and degrade biological pollutants. Quantum dots are in fact zero-dimensional inorganic semi-conductive fluorescent nanoparticles that are 1-20 nm in size. The tiny size of the particles enables them to provide higher surface to carry out various reactions. In this research, zinc sulfide quantum dots were synthesized in forms of pure and doped with iron ion with mean size of 1-2 nm through chemical deposition method in the presence of 2-mercaptoethanol as a capping agent. After the characterization of the compounds, they were used as new, effective, and green nanophotocatalysts for the degradation of malachite green dye pollutant in aqueous media. This research, in fact, has proposed a new idea in the field of degradation and removal of biological pollutants. When the method is developed and modified, it can be used in petrochemical industries, refining industries, dyeing, and the purification of industrial wastewater. In cases there are restricted limitations for the use of microorganisms, it is very essential to develop new methods for the implementation of compounds that do not pollute the system and are recoverable after the purification of wastewater. Results of the research have been published in details in Journal of Hazardous Materials, vol. 250-251, 15 April 2013, pp. 370-378. It has been considered as one of the top articles in the field of nanotechnology.