Graphene quantum dots (GQDs), as a unique member of the nanocarbon family, have become important catalysts for overall water splitting and metal-air batteries because of their high specific surface area, abundant surface chemical reaction sites and high electron mobility. Understanding the fundamental catalytic mechanism of GQDs in heterogeneous catalysis is conducive to the rational design of high performance GQD-based catalysts. This article summarizes current research progress in the synthesis, modification and applications of GQD-based heterogeneous catalysts in overall water splitting, metal-air batteries and other fields. The issues related to the use of GQD-based catalysts in these fields are discussed together with their future development.

石墨烯量子点（GQDs）作为纳米碳家族的独特成员，由于其高比表面积、丰富的表面化学反应位点和高电子迁移率，已成为整体水分解和金属-空气电池的重要催化剂。了解GQDs在多相催化中的基本催化机理有助于合理设计高性能GQD基催化剂。本文综述了当前GQD基多相催化剂的合成、改性及在整体水分解、金属-空气电池等领域的应用研究进展。与在这些领域中使用基于 GQD 的催化剂相关的问题与其未来发展一起讨论。