Synthesis and characterization of nitrogen-doped carbon dots from bird’s nest for heavy metal detection

We synthesized nitrogen-doped carbon dots (N-CDs) from bird’s nest, a natural source of minerals and amino acids, using microwave irradiation. The N-CDs had a size range of 5-8 nm and exhibited strong fluorescence emission at 540 nm when excited at 350 nm. The fluorescence of the N-CDs was effectively quenched by Fe3+, indicating their potential as sensors for heavy metals and environmental applications.