Paper strip-embedded graphene quantum dots: a screening device with a smartphone readout
Ruslan Álvarez-Diduk1, Jahir Orozco1, Arben Merkoçi2,3
1Nanobioelectronics and Biosensor Group, Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), CSIC, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Campus UAB, Bellaterra, 08193, Barcelona, Spain.
Scientific Reports
|April 22, 2017
Summary
This study presents a low-cost, disposable paper sensor using luminescent graphene quantum dots for rapid chemical screening. Smartphone integration enables easy readout, making it ideal for field applications like detecting phenols in environmental samples.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Simple, inexpensive, and rapid sensing systems are crucial for diverse applications.
- Paper-based analytical devices offer significant potential for meeting these demands.
- Existing methods often require complex instrumentation, limiting accessibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an easy-to-use, low-cost, and disposable paper-based sensing device for rapid chemical screening.
- To utilize luminescent graphene quantum dots (GQDs) as sensing probes.
- To integrate smartphone technology for readout and data acquisition.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized graphene quantum dots (GQDs) from citric acid via pyrolysis.
- Embedded GQDs into a nitrocellulose matrix on wax-traced spots.
- Utilized a smartphone-powered UV LED within a 3D-printed dark chamber for excitation and imaging.
- Investigated resonance energy transfer as the sensing mechanism.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated a disposable paper-based sensing device with smartphone readout.
- Successfully screened phenols and polyphenols in environmental and food samples, respectively.
- Achieved highly reproducible data due to isolation from external light fluctuations.
Conclusions:
- The developed cellulose-based device is a promising tool for rapid screening of organic compounds.
- This technology offers versatile applications, especially in remote settings lacking sophisticated equipment.
- The system provides a simple, fast, and accessible approach to chemical analysis.
