Large current difference in Au-coated vertical silicon nanowire electrode array with functionalization of peptides

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Biosensors
• Electrochemistry

Background:

• Biomolecule sensing is crucial for diagnostics and research.
• Conventional thin-film electrodes have limitations in sensitivity and current density.
• Vertical silicon nanowire electrode arrays (VSNEA) offer potential for improved electrochemical sensing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate and evaluate a gold-coated vertical silicon nanowire electrode array (Au-coated VSNEA) for sensitive biomolecule detection.
• To compare the performance of Au-coated VSNEA with traditional gold film electrodes for peptide sensing.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of Au-coated VSNEA using chemical vapor deposition and complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor processes.
• Functionalization of Au-coated VSNEA with peptides containing a fluorescent probe.
• Electrochemical characterization using cyclic voltammetry to assess current behavior and density.

Main Results:

• Au-coated VSNEA exhibited significantly higher current density than gold film electrodes due to its small dimensions and vertical alignment.
• A nine-fold greater current difference was observed with and without peptides on Au-coated VSNEA compared to gold film electrodes.
• Peptide-functionalized Au-coated VSNEA demonstrated steady-state electrochemical current behavior.

Conclusions:

• Au-coated VSNEA is a highly effective device for detecting peptides, outperforming conventional thin-film electrodes.
• The unique architecture of VSNEA enables enhanced sensitivity and signal amplification in biosensing applications.
• Au-coated VSNEA presents a versatile platform for diverse biosensor applications.