CdSeTe/ZnSe/ZnS quantum dots were synthesized for the first time.
A novel soluble quantum dot–graphene oxide (QD–GO) nanocomposite was prepared.
Four ubiquitous PAHs were tested for their affinity to the novel QD–GO probe.
The LOD for phenanthrene in water was 0.19 µg/L.
Detection may be based on an adsorption-fluorescence enhancement effect.