Diversified dimensionality of nanomaterials and their Fӧrster resonance energy transfer based applications

Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) is a distance-dependent and non-radiative energy transfer process that has become a valuable tool in many fields such as biosensing, bioimaging, photovoltaics, and optoelectronics. Traditional FRET systems often used organic dyes as donors and acceptors, but these dyes have several drawbacks, including low stability, sensitivity to pH, and toxicity. To overcome these issues, researchers have started using nanomaterials of different shapes and sizes in FRET systems. This review explores the role of nanomaterials ranging from zero-to three-dimensional structures as both donors and acceptors in FRET. We discuss how their size, shape, and electronic properties affect the efficiency of energy transfer. Special attention is given to materials like quantum dots, up-conversion nanoparticles, metal nanoclusters, and perovskites. The review also summarizes different donor–acceptor pairs and their use in various applications such as detection, imaging, and solar energy harvesting. By connecting the dimensional features of nanomaterials with their performance, this review provides an overview of current research and future possibilities for FRET-based technologies.