Carbon quantum dot nanomaterials，as new zero-dimensional carbon nanomaterials with many advantages such as good water solubility，low toxicity，and easy modification，have been widely applied in the field of metal anti-corrosion research. This article reviews the research progress of carbon quantum dot nanomaterials in two directions of corrosion inhibitors and anti-corrosion coating. It introduces their preparation methods，mechanisms of action，and specific properties. The researchers believe that by preparing carbon quantum dot nanomaterials with different precursor and modifying them with different functional groups，the corrosion inhibition performance of the inhibitors can be effectively improved；Carbon quantum dots can effectively improve the anti-corrosion performance of coatings when modified as nano fillers. It is pointed out that the functionalization modification of carbon quantum dots，the expansion of their fluorescence properties，and the large-scale preparation of carbon quantum dots are important research directions for their future application in the field of metal corrosion prevention.