Adaptable graphitic C₆N₆-based copper single-atom catalyst for intelligent biosensing.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Catalysis
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Self-adaptability in artificial devices like robots with chemical noses is a key goal.
• Developing catalysts with multiple, modulable reaction pathways is challenging due to inconsistent conditions and interferences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize an adaptable graphitic C6N6-based copper single-atom catalyst (CuSA C6N6).
• To investigate its capability to drive oxidation reactions via dual pathways.
• To apply the catalyst in a glucose biosensor for intelligent sensitivity switching.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of graphitic C6N6-based copper single-atom catalyst (CuSA C6N6).
• Investigation of catalytic activity using peroxidase substrates under light.
• Characterization of reaction pathways and intermediates.
• Fabrication and testing of a glucose biosensor utilizing the catalyst.

Main Results:

• CuSA C6N6 exhibits a dual pathway mechanism: a copper-oxo pathway for basic oxidation and a hydroxyl radical pathway triggered by light.
• The catalyst achieves a 3.6-fold gain in activity under household light, outperforming controls.
• Intramolecular charge transfer within the catalyst structure inhibits pathway interference.
• The glucose biosensor demonstrates intelligent switching of sensitivity and linear detection range.

Conclusions:

• CuSA C6N6 is a promising adaptable catalyst with dual reaction pathways for enhanced oxidation.
• The catalyst's unique structure enables efficient intramolecular charge transfer, preventing interference.
• The developed glucose biosensor showcases intelligent self-adaptation for versatile detection.