Carbon-Based Nanomaterials for Plasmonic Sensors: A Review

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) is a powerful technique with broad scientific applications.
• SPR sensor research focuses on enhancing sensitivity and specificity using novel materials.
• Nanomaterials offer unique properties that can significantly advance SPR sensor design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of carbon-based nanomaterials in SPR-based sensors.
• To highlight current developments and applications of these materials in SPR sensing.
• To identify challenges and future directions in this field.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on SPR sensors and carbon-based nanomaterials.
• Analysis of the properties of various carbon nanomaterials (graphene, GO, rGO, CNTs).
• Examination of how these nanomaterials are integrated into SPR sensor designs.

Main Results:

• Carbon-based nanomaterials act as plasmonic layers and sensitivity enhancers in SPR sensors.
• Their large surface area and biocompatibility facilitate biomolecule immobilization (enzymes, DNA, antibodies).
• Nanomaterials have revolutionized SPR sensing by improving performance and enabling new applications.

Conclusions:

• Carbon-based nanomaterials are crucial for advancing SPR sensor technology.
• Continued research into these materials promises further improvements in sensitivity, specificity, and application scope.
• Addressing current challenges will unlock the full potential of nanomaterial-enhanced SPR sensors.