Highly selective reduced graphene oxide (rGO) sensor based on a peptide aptamer receptor for detecting explosives

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Sensing
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Bio/chemical sensors and electronic noses require room-temperature detection with high selectivity.
• Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is a promising material for sensor applications.
• Peptide functionalization offers specific molecular recognition capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a highly selective and sensitive gas sensor for dinitrotoluene (DNT) detection.
• To utilize a reduced graphene oxide (rGO) platform functionalized with a peptide receptor.
• To demonstrate room-temperature operation and surface regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a multi-arrayed rGO sensor using spin coating and microfabrication.
• Functionalization of rGO with a DNT-specific binding peptide (DNT-bp) and a non-specific binding peptide (DNT-nbp).
• Detection of differential signals between functionalized sensors to identify DNT targets.

Main Results:

• The rGO sensor functionalized with DNT-bp showed specific binding to 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT).
• Achieved a sensitivity of 27 ± 2 × 10^-6 per ppb for DNT detection.
• Demonstrated high selectivity, with minimal response to acetone, toluene, and ethanol.
• The sensor surface was successfully regenerated by purging with N₂.

Conclusions:

• The developed rGO-based sensor with peptide functionalization is effective for sensitive and selective DNT detection.
• The differential signal approach effectively reduces noise and environmental interference.
• This platform offers a promising solution for real-time monitoring in various applications.