High-yield synthesis of antibiotic-derived carbon dots for enhanced Achyranthes bidentata growth and in vitro bone bonding

Biomass-derived carbon dots (CDs) are increasingly recognized as biocompatible, multifunctional nanomaterials with strong potential in agricultural applications. Herein, we report a high-yield hydrothermal synthesis of antibiotic-derived CDs with tailored functionalities for enhancing the growth of Achyranthes bidentata , one widely used Traditional Chinese Medicine plants. By introducing acrylamide as a co-carbon source and potassium persulfate as a polymerization initiator, the synthetic yield was dramatically improved (up to 90.5%), and the resulting CDs exhibited a polyacrylamide-like structure that significantly enhanced soil water retention. Furthermore, CDs derived from tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics demonstrated reactive oxygen species scavenging capabilities, mitigating oxidative stress. Application of these CDs promoted root, stem, and leaf growth. Additionally, the antibiotic-derived CDs exhibited significant bone-binding affinity due to Ca 2+ chelation, highlighting their potential for bone-defect localization and tracking. This work provides a scalable and multifunctional nanomaterial strategy for sustainable agriculture, medicinal plant cultivation, and potential biomedical applications. High-yield antibiotic-derived carbon dots for foliar spraying on Achyranthes bidentata can enhance photosynthesis, improve soil moisture retention, and reduce reactive oxygen species, and exhibited significant bone-binding affinity. • High-yield antibiotic-derived CDs via polymer-assisted synthesis. • CDs enhance soil water retention and scavenge reactive oxygen species. • Promotes growth of medicinal plants with up to 39% leaf length increase. • Exhibits strong in vitro bone bonding via Ca 2+ chelation. • A multifunctional nanomaterial for sustainable agriculture and biomedicine.