Moving from two-dimensional hexagonal boron nitride (2D h-BN) flatlands towards their quantum sized zero-dimensional (0D) islands, as the newest member of the h-BN family, has recently opened up novel research areas due to the emergence of unique optical and physicochemical properties, excellent thermal and chemical stability, and desirable biocompatibility. This review elaborates on the fundamental properties of 2D and 0D h-BN nanomaterials and covers the latest progress in the fabrication and applications of BN nanosheets (BNNSs) and quantum dots (BNQDs). Initially, the transformation of properties in h-BN nanomaterials is discussed when moving from the 2D realm towards the 0D quantum zone. Then, top-down and bottom-up synthesis methods of 2D h-BN are reviewed, analyzing each method’s advantages and shortcomings. The review will continue explaining the fabrication methods of BNQDs and the impact of synthesis technique on their physiochemical characteristics. Special attention is given to surface chemistry of BNQD nanocrystals that can alter their electronic band structure and optoelectronic properties. Thereafter, detailed discussion on the implementation of BNNSs and BNQDs in various applications, e.g., catalysts, sensors, bioimaging probes, proton exchange membranes, and photocatalytic activators, is provided. At last, an overview of the ongoing challenges and future directions for BNQD research is presented.

作为 h-BN 家族的最新成员，从​​二维六方氮化硼 (2D h-BN) 平地向量子尺寸的零维 (0D) 岛移动，由于独特的光学和物理化学性质、优异的热稳定性和化学稳定性以及理想的生物相容性。这篇综述详细阐述了二维和零维 h-BN 纳米材料的基本特性，并涵盖了 BN 纳米片 (BNNSs) 和量子点 (BNQDs) 的制造和应用的最新进展。最初，讨论了从 2D 领域向 0D 量子区移动时 h-BN 纳米材料的性质转变。然后，回顾了二维 h-BN 自上而下和自下而上的合成方法，分析了每种方法的优缺点。该综述将继续解释 BNQD 的制造方法以及合成技术对其理化特性的影响。特别关注 BNQD 纳米晶体的表面化学，它可以改变它们的电子能带结构和光电特性。此后，详细讨论了 BNNS 和 BNQD 在各种应用中的实施，例如，催化剂、传感器、生物成像探针、质子交换膜和光催化活化剂。最后，概述了 BNQD 研究的持续挑战和未来方向。特别关注 BNQD 纳米晶体的表面化学，它可以改变它们的电子能带结构和光电特性。此后，详细讨论了 BNNS 和 BNQD 在各种应用中的实施，例如，催化剂、传感器、生物成像探针、质子交换膜和光催化活化剂。最后，概述了 BNQD 研究的持续挑战和未来方向。特别关注 BNQD 纳米晶体的表面化学，它可以改变它们的电子能带结构和光电特性。此后，详细讨论了 BNNS 和 BNQD 在各种应用中的实施，例如，催化剂、传感器、生物成像探针、质子交换膜和光催化活化剂。最后，概述了 BNQD 研究的持续挑战和未来方向。