Quantum Dot-Based Nanocomposite as Metal Sensors

The quest for searching new functional materials for efficient heavy metal sensors has motivated the development of productive hybrid materials in which the strengths and weaknesses of various materials are considered and the complimentary and synergetic functions of the individual materials are utilized for achieving better material performance. Quantum dots (QDs) are zero-dimensional nanomaterials with inherent optical and optoelectronic properties and thus are highly employed for heavy metal sensing. Recent advances in QD research have produced QDs-based nanocomposites by doping QDs with metals, conjugating QDs to molecules, polymers, magnetic materials, and biomolecules to improve hydrophilicity, and stability and enhance their sensing capabilities. This chapter describes the application of various QD-based nanocomposites as heavy metal sensors. The importance and involvement of materials such as metal-doped QD, QD-based polymeric, QD-based magnetic, QD-based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), and QD-based bioconjugates are well described. The sensing mechanisms involved in the detection as well as challenges coupled with future projecions are also highlighted.