Nanomaterials for urban farming

Abstract

Carbon nanodots (CDs) are novel nanomaterials used mainly in bioimaging of animal cells and systems. Recent studies have suggested the usefulness of CDs in enhancing the growth of plants. In this project, CD was synthesised from hydrothermal treatment of EDTA. Mung bean plant was used as the test subject to study its physiological response to different concentrations of CD added. The root and shoot lengths were found to increase consistently up to a concentration of 0.4 mg/ml. Characterisation tests were performed to understand the properties of the synthesised CDs. FTIR results proved an abundance of hydrophilic groups such as amine and hydroxyl on the surface. From UV-Vis, the peak absorption wavelength of 280 nm was obtained which corresponded to π-π* transition of the unsaturated C=C linkage. The value was used as a reference, where fluorescence spectroscopy was done from excitation wavelength of 270-320 nm. Emission wavelength blue shifted with excitation wavelength. In DLS, zeta potential decreased with increasing pH, from positive to negative. The solution was considered monodisperse since it had a PDI value of 0.335. Overall, the test results displayed consistency with past literature. To expand the field of study using carbon dots, repeated tests and modifications to the parameters used in this project can be done. With more adequate knowledge and findings, carbon dots serve as an excellent material that can potentially improve the urban farming landscape.