Diamond film for Biosensors

A diamond film developed by chemists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, could possibly produce a compact sensor that could continuously scan airports, stadiums and other places where large numbers of people gather, for the slightest trace of biological weapons. Coupled with modern electronics, the new sensors, about the size of a postage stamp, could not only be able to detect nearby biological agents, but also sound alarms and even call for help.

The reported technology is centred on a newfound ability to make highly stable, DNA modified diamond films.

Robert Hamers, a professor of chemistry worked in collaboration with Lloyd Smith to develop the chemistry for the diamond surfaces, with Dan van der Weide, a professor of electrical and computer engineering to achieve the electronic sensing.

Because diamond films can be deposited on silicon it provides a bridge between the world of miniature electronics and biology, which requires a chemically stable platform for biosensing.

The chemists have created surfaces that are much more stable than anything that existed before and have proven that the sensor can detect the electrical responses when biomolecules bind to the diamondsurface.

Before the biosensors become practical, significant engineering for packaging and fluid-handling systems must be completed.