Highlights on advances in SnO₂ quantum dots: insights into synthesis strategies, modifications and applications

Abstract

The applications of SnO2 are benefited from its nanostructure with different sizes and novel morphologies. When the size of nanoparticles reduces to 1–10 nm, the unique physical and chemical properties will make prominent. SnO2 quantum dots (QDs), a type of zero-dimensional ultrasmall SnO2 nanomaterials with a size in 1–10 nm, have displayed unique physical and chemical properties, which are different from those of their larger-sized ones. This review summarizes various synthesis strategies of SnO2 QDs and the methods of their modifications, discusses their applications in lithium-ion batteries, photocatalysis, and gas sensors. These applications profit from the characteristic properties inherent in SnO2 QDs.