Patterning through Self Assembly and Potential-Directed Approaches
Potential-dependent modification provides a means to specifically modify different submicron- and micron-sized electrodes in various geometries and locations with organic molecules so that arrays of chemical sensors may be constructed. An emphasis of this work is understanding the influence of electrochemical environment and reactions of the organic molecules with the surfaces of the electrodes under potential control. Some research in this area focuses on gold surfaces modified with self-assembled monolayers (SAMS) of organothiols. We have ongoing projects on the stability of SAMs as a function of potential, time, conditions, environment, and solvents. The products formed are being characterized, as are the surface and solution mechanisms that are responsible for any instability. Interfacing Organic Materials to Inorganic Micro and Nanostructures We are incorporating the natural selectivity of biologically-important molecules into thin films to discriminate electrochemical signals for micro and nanoscopic sensors. This involves the design and construction of a well-defined biomembrane-like layer not only on electrode surfaces, but also across microfabricated cavities, essentially encapsulating self-contained electrochemical devices inside. New sensing materials are being synthesized from thin organic films of mixed hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties that are formed by SAMs and phospholipids. These materials form the basis of biomimetic membranes and artificial biological cells.
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