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Datta S, Vasini S, Miao X, Liu PQ. Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Sensors Employing a Nanoparticle-On-Liquid-Mirror (NPoLM) Architecture. SMALL METHODS 2024:e2400119. [PMID: 38639023 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202400119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensors typically employ nanophotonic structures that support high-field confinement and enhancement in hotspots to increase the Raman scattering from target molecules by orders of magnitude. In general, high field and SERS enhancement can be achieved by reducing the critical dimensions and mode volumes of the hotspots to nanoscale. To this end, a multitude of SERS sensors employing photonic structures with nanometric hotspots have been demonstrated. However, delivering analyte molecules into nanometric hotspots is challenging, and the trade-off between field confinement/enhancement and analyte delivery efficiency is a critical limiting factor for the performance of many nanophotonic SERS sensors. Here, a new type of SERS sensor employing solid-metal nanoparticles and bulk liquid metal is demonstrated to form nanophotonic resonators with a nanoparticle-on-liquid-mirror (NPoLM) architecture, which effectively resolves this trade-off. In particular, this unconventional sensor architecture allows for the convenient formation of nanometric hotspots by introducing liquid metal after analyte molecules are efficiently delivered to the surface of gold nanoparticles. In addition, a cost-effective and reliable process is developed to produce gold nanoparticles on a substrate suitable for forming NPoLM structures. These NPoLM structures achieve two orders of magnitude higher SERS signals than the gold nanoparticles alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreyan Datta
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA
| | - Shoaib Vasini
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA
| | - Xianglong Miao
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA
| | - Peter Q Liu
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA
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Zhu J, Li J, Tong Y, Hu T, Chen Z, Xiao Y, Zhang S, Yang H, Gao M, Pan T, Cheng H, Lin Y. Recent progress in multifunctional, reconfigurable, integrated liquid metal-based stretchable sensors and standalone systems. PROGRESS IN MATERIALS SCIENCE 2024; 142:101228. [PMID: 38745676 PMCID: PMC11090487 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmatsci.2023.101228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Possessing a unique combination of properties that are traditionally contradictory in other natural or synthetical materials, Ga-based liquid metals (LMs) exhibit low mechanical stiffness and flowability like a liquid, with good electrical and thermal conductivity like metal, as well as good biocompatibility and room-temperature phase transformation. These remarkable properties have paved the way for the development of novel reconfigurable or stretchable electronics and devices. Despite these outstanding properties, the easy oxidation, high surface tension, and low rheological viscosity of LMs have presented formidable challenges in high-resolution patterning. To address this challenge, various surface modifications or additives have been employed to tailor the oxidation state, viscosity, and patterning capability of LMs. One effective approach for LM patterning is breaking down LMs into microparticles known as liquid metal particles (LMPs). This facilitates LM patterning using conventional techniques such as stencil, screening, or inkjet printing. Judiciously formulated photo-curable LMP inks or the introduction of an adhesive seed layer combined with a modified lift-off process further provide the micrometer-level LM patterns. Incorporating porous and adhesive substrates in LM-based electronics allows direct interfacing with the skin for robust and long-term monitoring of physiological signals. Combined with self-healing polymers in the form of substrates or composites, LM-based electronics can provide mechanical-robust devices to heal after damage for working in harsh environments. This review provides the latest advances in LM-based composites, fabrication methods, and their novel and unique applications in stretchable or reconfigurable sensors and resulting integrated systems. It is believed that the advancements in LM-based material preparation and high-resolution techniques have opened up opportunities for customized designs of LM-based stretchable sensors, as well as multifunctional, reconfigurable, highly integrated, and even standalone systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Zhu
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Jiaying Li
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Yao Tong
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215011, PR China
| | - Taiqi Hu
- School of Electrical Engineering and Automation, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, Ganzhou 341000, P. R. China
| | - Ziqi Chen
- School of Physical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, PR China
| | - Yang Xiao
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Senhao Zhang
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215011, PR China
| | - Hongbo Yang
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215011, PR China
| | - Min Gao
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Taisong Pan
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Huanyu Cheng
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Yuan Lin
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
- Medico-Engineering Cooperation on Applied Medicine Research Center, University of Electronics Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
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Yan S, Sun J, Chen B, Wang L, Bian S, Sawan M, Tang H, Wen L, Meng G. Manipulating Coupled Field Enhancement in Slot-under-Groove Nanoarrays for Universal Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering. ACS NANO 2023; 17:22766-22777. [PMID: 37782470 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c07458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is an ultrasensitive spectroscopic technique that can identify materials and chemicals based on their inelastic light-scattering properties. In general, SERS relies on sub-10 nm nanogaps to amplify the Raman signals and achieve ultralow-concentration identification of analytes. However, large-sized analytes, such as proteins and viruses, usually cannot enter these tiny nanogaps, limiting the practical applications of SERS. Herein, we demonstrate a universal SERS platform for the reliable and sensitive identification of a wide range of analytes. The key to this success is the prepared "slot-under-groove" nanoarchitecture arrays, which could realize a strongly coupled field enhancement with a large spatial mode distribution via the hybridization of gap-surface plasmons in the upper V-groove and localized surface plasmon resonance in the lower slot. Therefore, our slot-under-groove platform can simultaneously deliver high sensitivity for small-sized analytes and the identification of large-sized analytes with a large Raman gain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sisi Yan
- Key Laboratory of Materials Physics and Anhui Key Laboratory of Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology, Institute of Solid State Physics, HFIPS, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 1129, Hefei 230031, China
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, 96 Jinzhai Road, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Jiacheng Sun
- Key Laboratory of 3D Micro/Nano Fabrication and Characterization of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Bin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Materials Physics and Anhui Key Laboratory of Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology, Institute of Solid State Physics, HFIPS, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 1129, Hefei 230031, China
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, 96 Jinzhai Road, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Lang Wang
- Key Laboratory of 3D Micro/Nano Fabrication and Characterization of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Sumin Bian
- CenBRAIN Lab, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Mohamad Sawan
- CenBRAIN Lab, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Haibin Tang
- Key Laboratory of Materials Physics and Anhui Key Laboratory of Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology, Institute of Solid State Physics, HFIPS, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 1129, Hefei 230031, China
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, 96 Jinzhai Road, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Liaoyong Wen
- Key Laboratory of 3D Micro/Nano Fabrication and Characterization of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Guowen Meng
- Key Laboratory of Materials Physics and Anhui Key Laboratory of Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology, Institute of Solid State Physics, HFIPS, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 1129, Hefei 230031, China
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, 96 Jinzhai Road, Hefei 230026, China
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Li D, Xu C, Xie J, Lee C. Research Progress in Surface-Enhanced Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy: From Performance Optimization, Sensing Applications, to System Integration. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:2377. [PMID: 37630962 PMCID: PMC10458771 DOI: 10.3390/nano13162377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Infrared absorption spectroscopy is an effective tool for the detection and identification of molecules. However, its application is limited by the low infrared absorption cross-section of the molecule, resulting in low sensitivity and a poor signal-to-noise ratio. Surface-Enhanced Infrared Absorption (SEIRA) spectroscopy is a breakthrough technique that exploits the field-enhancing properties of periodic nanostructures to amplify the vibrational signals of trace molecules. The fascinating properties of SEIRA technology have aroused great interest, driving diverse sensing applications. In this review, we first discuss three ways for SEIRA performance optimization, including material selection, sensitivity enhancement, and bandwidth improvement. Subsequently, we discuss the potential applications of SEIRA technology in fields such as biomedicine and environmental monitoring. In recent years, we have ushered in a new era characterized by the Internet of Things, sensor networks, and wearable devices. These new demands spurred the pursuit of miniaturized and consolidated infrared spectroscopy systems and chips. In addition, the rise of machine learning has injected new vitality into SEIRA, bringing smart device design and data analysis to the foreground. The final section of this review explores the anticipated trajectory that SEIRA technology might take, highlighting future trends and possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongxiao Li
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117583, Singapore; (D.L.); (C.X.); (J.X.)
- Center for Intelligent Sensors and MEMS (CISM), National University of Singapore, Singapore 117608, Singapore
| | - Cheng Xu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117583, Singapore; (D.L.); (C.X.); (J.X.)
- Center for Intelligent Sensors and MEMS (CISM), National University of Singapore, Singapore 117608, Singapore
| | - Junsheng Xie
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117583, Singapore; (D.L.); (C.X.); (J.X.)
- Center for Intelligent Sensors and MEMS (CISM), National University of Singapore, Singapore 117608, Singapore
| | - Chengkuo Lee
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117583, Singapore; (D.L.); (C.X.); (J.X.)
- Center for Intelligent Sensors and MEMS (CISM), National University of Singapore, Singapore 117608, Singapore
- NUS Suzhou Research Institute (NUSRI), Suzhou 215123, China
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Liu PQ, Miao X, Datta S. Recent Advances in Liquid Metal Photonics: Technologies and Applications. OPTICAL MATERIALS EXPRESS 2023; 13:699-727. [PMID: 38249122 PMCID: PMC10798671 DOI: 10.1364/ome.484236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Near-room-temperature liquid metals offer unique and crucial advantages over solid metals for a broad range of applications which require soft, stretchable and/or reconfigurable structures and devices. In particular, gallium-based liquid metals are the most suitable for a wide range of applications, not only owing to their low melting points, but also thanks to their low toxicity and negligible vapor pressure. In addition, gallium-based liquid metals exhibit attractive optical properties which make them highly suitable for a variety of photonics applications. This review summarizes the material properties of gallium-based liquid metals, highlights several effective techniques for fabricating liquid-metal-based structures and devices, and then focuses on the various photonics applications of these liquid metals in different spectral regions, following with a discussion on the challenges and opportunities for future research in this relatively nascent field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Q. Liu
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University at Buffalo, the State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA
| | - Xianglong Miao
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University at Buffalo, the State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA
| | - Shreyan Datta
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University at Buffalo, the State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA
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Zhou L, Li Y, Xiao J, Chen SW, Tu Q, Yuan MS, Wang J. Liquid Metal-Doped Conductive Hydrogel for Construction of Multifunctional Sensors. Anal Chem 2023; 95:3811-3820. [PMID: 36747339 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c05118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Interest in wearable and stretchable multifunctional sensors has grown rapidly in recent years. The sensing elements must accurately detect external stimuli to expand their applicability as sensors. However, the sensor's self-healing and adhesion to a target object have been major challenges in developing such practical and versatile devices. In this study, we prepared a hydrogel (LM-SA-PAA) composed of liquid metal (LM), sodium alginate (SA), and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) with ultrastretchable, excellent self-healing, self-adhesive, and high-sensitivity sensing capabilities that enable the conformal contact between the sensor and skin even during dynamic movements. The excellent self-healing performance of the hydrogel stems from its double cross-linked networks, including physical and chemical cross-linked networks. The physical cross-link formed by the ionic interaction between the carboxyl groups of PAA and gallium ions provide the hydrogel with reversible autonomous repair properties, whereas the covalent bond provides the hydrogel with a stable and strong chemical network. Alginate forms a microgel shell around LM nanoparticles via the coordination of its carboxyl groups with Ga ions. In addition to offering exceptional colloidal stability, the alginate shell has sufficient polar groups, ensuring that the hydrogel adheres to diverse substrates. Based on the efficient electrical pathway provided by the LM, the hydrogel exhibited strain sensitivity and enabled the detection of various human motions and electrocardiographic monitoring. The preparation method is simple and versatile and can be used for the low-cost fabrication of multifunctional sensors, which have broad application prospects in human-machine interface compatibility and medical monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingtong Zhou
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, P. R. China
| | - Yuanchang Li
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, P. R. China
| | - Jingcheng Xiao
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, P. R. China
| | - Shu-Wei Chen
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, P. R. China
| | - Qin Tu
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, P. R. China
| | - Mao-Sen Yuan
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, P. R. China
| | - Jinyi Wang
- College of Chemistry & Pharmacy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, P. R. China
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A self-healing electrocatalytic system via electrohydrodynamics induced evolution in liquid metal. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7625. [PMID: 36494429 PMCID: PMC9734151 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35416-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Catalytic deterioration during electrocatalytic processes is inevitable for conventional composite electrodes, which are prepared by depositing catalysts onto a rigid current collector. In contrast, metals that are liquid at near room temperature, liquid metals (LMs), are potential electrodes that are uniquely flexible and maneuverable, and whose fluidity may allow them to be more adaptive than rigid substrates. Here we demonstrate a self-healing electrocatalytic system for CO2 electroreduction using bismuth-containing Ga-based LM electrodes. Bi2O3 dispersed in the LM matrix experiences a series of electrohydrodynamic-induced structural changes when exposed to a tunable potential and finally transforms into catalytic bismuth, whose morphology can be controlled by the applied potential. The electrohydrodynamically-induced evolved electrode shows considerable electrocatalytic activity for CO2 reduction to formate. After deterioration of the electrocatalytic performance, the catalyst can be healed via simple mechanical stirring followed by in situ regeneration by applying a reducing potential. With this procedure, the electrode's original structure and catalytic activity are both recovered.
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