DNA-decorated graphene chemical sensors

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that decorating graphene with single stranded DNA enhances its capability as a chemical sensor, enabling fast, reversible detection and discrimination of various vapor analytes at room temperature.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel approach of using DNA functionalization to improve graphene's chemical sensing performance.

Findings

Fast response times and complete recovery at room temperature.

Ability to discriminate between similar vapor analytes.

Enhanced sensitivity through DNA decoration.

Abstract

Graphene is a true two dimensional material with exceptional electronic properties and enormous potential for practical applications. Graphene's promise as a chemical sensor material has been noted but there has been relatively little work on practical chemical sensing using graphene, and in particular how chemical functionalization may be used to sensitize graphene to chemical vapors. Here we show one route towards improving the ability of graphene to work as a chemical sensor by using single stranded DNA as a sensitizing agent. The resulting broad response devices show fast response times, complete and rapid recovery to baseline at room temperature, and discrimination between several similar vapor analytes.