Effects of Carbon Quantum Dots on Aquatic Environments: Comparison of Toxicity to Organisms at Different Trophic Levels

• DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b04235
• Publication Date: 2018-11-29T01:09:21Z
• Authors: Kun Yao; Xiaohui Lv; Guangqiang Zheng; Zuohong Chen; Yuelu Jiang; Xiaoshan Zhu; Zhenyu Wang; Zhonghua Cai
• Keywords: Carbon Quantum Dots; Carbon fibers; Chemical toxicity

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have high hydrophilicity, cell permeability, and are frequently used in water-based biorelated applications, yet studies concerning the ecological risks of CQDs aquatic environments largely insufficient. In present study, toxicity to zebrafish (Danio rerio), zooplankton (Daphnia magna), phytoplankton (Scenedesmus obliquus) were assessed for first time. The results indicated that (up 200 mg/L) could be depurated by D. rerio with negligible toxicity. comparison, induced mortality immobility magna a 48-h EC50 value LC50 97.5 160.3 mg/L, respectively. S. obliquus, inhibited photosynthesis nutrition absorption dose- time-dependent manner, growth algae was also 96-h 74.8 suggesting lowest trophic level this most sensitive exposure. Further investigations revealed an increase oxidative stress cells decrease pH medium, indicating water acidification may mechanisms underlying obliquus.