Development of sensors based on graphene and its derivatives decorated with gold nanoparticles and porphyrins

Abstract

Graphene, a two dimensional building block of a carbon allotrope, has emerged as an important material of the 21st century and received world-wide attention due to its exceptional charge transport, thermal, optical, and mechanical properties. Graphene and its derivatives are being studied in nearly every field of science and engineering. Recent progress has shown that the graphene-based materials can have a profound impact on electronic and optoelectronic devices, chemical sensors, nanocomposites and energy storage. Considering this scenario, the objective of this project is the development a line of research based on the chemistry of functionalized graphene and its derivatives. Mastering the knowledge about this system and related techniques for obtaining them and their composites, it will be possible to obtain materials with potential for the development of analytical tools aimed at clinical diagnosis, biochemical and pharmacological analyzes.Graphene and its derivatives are the main object of this research project, but we also plan modify these structures with gold nanoparticles and porphyrins in order to obtain hybrid materials. With the implementation of this new line of research, the objective is also to bring the group a material whose versatility allows various synergies with other lines not only in the research group, but also with major research centers in the world, allowing it to project long term results. (AU)