Development and Characterization of PVA, Carbon Dots, and ZnO-Based nanocomposites for use as a conversion
layer in Light-Emitting Diodes.
Nanomaterials; Nanoparticles; LEDs; Photoluminescence; Optoelectronics.
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) represent a key technology for the energy transition due to their high efficiency, low energy consumption, and longer service life compared to conventional lighting sources, thereby helping to reduce environmental impacts. Against this backdrop, there is growing demand for sustainable materials capable of replacing the conventional components used in these devices. Carbon dots (Cdots) stand out for their low toxicity, photoluminescence, photostability, low-cost synthesis, and potential to be obtained from renewable sources. In addition, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO_NPs) exhibit high chemical and thermal stability, a wide bandgap, and intense photoluminescent emission—characteristics that make them promising materials for applications in optoelectronic devices, including sensors, photodetectors, and LEDs. When combined with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a water-soluble, biocompatible, and biodegradable polymer, these nanomaterials may be a promising alternative for the production of light-conversion layers in LEDs. Thus, the objective of this study was to develop and characterize PVA/Cdots- and PVA/Cdots/ZnO_NPs-based films for use as light-conversion layers in optoelectronic devices, evaluating their structural and optical properties. The research is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (ODSs), particularly ODS 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), ODS 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and ODS 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).