Abstract
Background: Fluorescent film sensors utilizing immobilized fluorescent reporters possess more favorable properties from a practical viewpoint. Recent advances in fluorescent noble metal nanoclusters, e.g. Au and Ag, have greatly prompted the development of fluorescent film sensors. The aims of this paper are to introduce readers to the synthesis of Au and Ag fluorescent nanoclusters and the fabrication of the fluorescent film sensors, and to review research related to the potential application of the nanoclusters-based fluorescent film sensors.
Methods: The synthesis of Au and Ag fluorescent nanoclusters, fabrication of fluorescent metal nanocluster film sensors and their application are reviewed. Outlook of the fluorescent film sensors is provided.
Results: Au and Ag fluorescent nanoclusters can be synthesized by using different ligands,such as thiol-based ligands, polymers and dendrimers, proteins, etc. Fluorescent films based on nanoclusters can be fabricated by incorporation of the pre-synthesized nanoclusters into the films or direct generation of nanoclusters within the films. Fluorescent film sensors have been used to sensitively and selectively detect heavy metal ions (e.g., Hg2+, Cu2+), nitrite anion, and trinitrotoluene (TNT).
Conclusion: Organic ligand shells of nanoclusters play a crucial role in stabilizing Au and Ag nanoclusters and impart the properties of the ligands to the encapsulated nanoclusters. The ligand shells of nanoclusters can be tailored independently, constituting versatile platforms for the development of simple and facile methods of immobilizing nanoclusters on solid substrates. Designing the immobilization strategy of clusters on substrates would have a profound effect on the construction of fluorescent nanocluster film sensors with optimal properties.
Keywords: Biofuel cell, carbon nanotube, direct electron transfer, horseradish peroxidase, hydrogen peroxide.
Graphical Abstract
Call for Papers in Thematic Issues
Role of nanomaterials in fabrication of coatings, Machining and Joining
The application of nanoscience has brought about a revolution in the field of mechanical engineering by providing novel materials, boosting manufacturing processes, and generating cutting-edge products. The purpose of this special issue is to investigate the enormous impact that nanoscience has had on mechanical engineering, with a particular emphasis on ...read more
Advanced Inorganic Nanocomposites and Their Emerging Applications
This special issue collection will highlight developments on the recent trends about the synthesis of metal oxides, nanoclusters, biomaterials, 2D nanomaterials, nanocrystals, nanocomposites, etc. and their applications in electrochemical systems, tissue regeneration, energy storage and harvesting, sensors, etc. The novelty of the methods in the chemical synthesis and their characterizations, ...read more
Applicability of Nanotechnology for Performance Enhancement of Clean Energy Technologies
Population growth, industrialization, and improvement in living quality would lead to further increase in energy demand in near future. Regarding the disadvantages of fossil fuels such as fluctuations in their price, high emissions of greenhouse gases and restriction of their sources, it is crucial to use and exploit alternative energy ...read more
Graphene and 2D Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion
This thematic issue will discuss the recent advances in graphene-based nanomaterials for different energy technologies. Graphene possesses a high surface area, and stable structure and exhibits many interesting electronic, optical, and mechanical properties due to its 2D crystal structure. Graphene is of both fundamental interest and suitable for a wide ...read more
Related Books
Nanoscale Field Effect Transistors: Emerging Applications
Nanoelectronics Devices: Design, Materials, and Applications Part II
Nanoelectronics Devices: Design, Materials, and Applications (Part I)
Role of Nanotechnology in Cancer Therapy
Synthesis and Applications of Semiconductor Nanostructures
Pathways to Green Nanomaterials: Plants as Raw Materials, Reducing Agents and Hosts
Applications of Nanomaterials in Medical Procedures and Treatments
Synthesis of Nanomaterials
Nanobiotechnology: Principles and Applications
Bio-Inspired Nanotechnology
22
5
1
1