Graphene-based molecule sensor shows high sensitivity and versatility

A reconfigurable and highly sensitive molecule sensor has been developed by scientists using the advanced material graphene.

Taking advantage of the unique electronic and optical properties of graphene, the team from the Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne and the Institute of Photonic Sciences in Barcelona based the new device on the principle of infrared absorption spectroscopy.

It can be used to identify the presence of nanometric molecules, while also revealing the nature of the bonds connecting the atoms that make up the molecule.

With this method, it is possible to conduct a complex analysis using only one device, rather than the wide spectrum of different technologies that would currently be required. Moreover, this can be accomplished without stressing or modifying the biological sample.

Professor Valerio Pruneri, a researcher on the project, said: "The concept can be used in different application fields, ranging from gas leakage, toxic and explosive gas sensing, and contaminants in water to DNA and proteins."

Graphene is known as the world's first 2D material and is only a single atom thick. It is ultra-light and incredibly tough, as well as being flexible, fire-resistant, highly conductive and difficult to permeate.