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Nano-Functional Materials for Sensor Applications—2nd Edition
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Nano-Functional Materials for Sensor Applications—2nd Edition

A special issue of Molecules (ISSN 1420-3049). This special issue belongs to the section "Nanochemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 May 2025 | Viewed by 7285

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Li Fu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China
Interests: biosensor; electroanalysis; graphene; biometric identification
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Aiwu Wang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Center for Advanced Material Diagnostic Technology, College of Engineering Physics, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen 518118, China
Interests: sensors; photochromic; semiconductor
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue highlights the latest advancements and cutting-edge research on nano-functional materials for sensor applications, focusing on their unique chemical properties at the molecular level. These materials are indispensable for a wide range of applications, including sensors in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and security.

Our esteemed contributors cover a diverse array of topics, from molecular-level interactions in novel fabrication techniques to innovative designs for enhancing the performance of sensors. They also explore the integration of nano-functional materials into existing systems, as well as their potential to enable entirely new sensing platforms. The articles in this Special Issue emphasize the transformative impact of nano-functional materials on sensors, offering insights into their current capabilities and future potential from a chemistry standpoint.

Molecular design and synthesis of nanostructured materials: discover the latest innovations in the chemical design and synthesis of various nanostructured materials.

Molecular recognition and signal transduction in biosensors: learn about the underlying chemistry of molecular recognition and signal transduction mechanisms in biosensors, with a focus on their potential applications in healthcare diagnostics, drug delivery, and therapeutics.

Optical and plasmonic sensors at the molecular level: investigate the role of molecular interactions in the emerging field of nano-plasmonics and its impact on the development of highly sensitive and compact optical sensors.

Wearable and flexible sensors: delve into the molecular-level engineering of wearable and flexible sensors that incorporate nano-functional materials, which have the potential to revolutionize health monitoring, human–machine interfaces, and other areas of wearable technology.

Molecular-level environmental and security applications: explore the potential of nano-functional materials for the development of sensors capable of detecting pollutants, radiation, and other threats to human health and security through molecular-level interactions.

Dr. Li Fu
Dr. Aiwu Wang
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Molecules is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • nano-functional materials
  • sensor applications
  • nanotechnology
  • fabrication techniques
  • sensing platforms
  • environmental monitoring
  • healthcare

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 3775 KiB  
Article
An Environmental Engineering Study Case: Constructing Cataluminescence Sensors Based on Octahedral Nanocomposites for Isovaleraldehyde Detection
by Bai Sun, Mao Cai, Guoji Shi, Yun Wang, Lining Bao, Qiang Zhao, Mingjian Yi and Shuguang Zhu
Molecules 2025, 30(3), 646; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30030646 - 1 Feb 2025
Viewed by 197
Abstract
Isovaleraldehyde is an important chemical raw material for the production of flavors, which is volatile and flammable and poses a health risk to humans. It is, therefore, essential to develop a rapid assay for the identification of isovaleraldehyde. In this study, octahedral NiCo [...] Read more.
Isovaleraldehyde is an important chemical raw material for the production of flavors, which is volatile and flammable and poses a health risk to humans. It is, therefore, essential to develop a rapid assay for the identification of isovaleraldehyde. In this study, octahedral NiCo2O4/MIL-Fe53 nanocomposites were successfully fabricated for the rapid detection of isovaleraldehyde. The prepared NiCo2O4/MIL-Fe53 nanocomposites were characterized by SEM, XRD, FTIR, and XPS to analyze the material properties. The effects of temperature, carrier gas flow rate, selectivity, and stability on the cataluminescence performance of this sensor were investigated. The results showed that NiCo2O4/MIL-Fe53 nanocomposites have excellent selectivity to isovaleraldehyde with response and recovery times of 6 and 8 s, respectively. A linear relationship was found between the CTL signal and isovaleraldehyde concentration Y = 9.56X − 23.3 (R2 = 0.99) over the concentration range of 13.66 to 437.22 ppm with a detection limit of 2.44 ppm. The relative deviation RSD = 4.18% for multiple tests of the sensor indicates good stability and longevity. Mechanistic studies have shown that the heterojunction formed by NiCo2O4/MIL-Fe53 nanocomposites has the advantage of improving CTL sensing performance. This study may advance the application of cataluminescence sensors in the detection of isovaleraldehyde. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-Functional Materials for Sensor Applications—2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 6249 KiB  
Article
Adsorption Properties of Metal Atom (Co, V, W, Zr)-Modified MoTe2 for CO, CH3CHO, and C6H6 Gases: A DFT Study
by Weizhong Xiao, Zixuan Wang and Yingang Gui
Molecules 2024, 29(21), 5086; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29215086 - 28 Oct 2024
Viewed by 727
Abstract
This study investigates the adsorption characteristics of the pristine MoTe2 monolayer and the metal atom (Co, V, W, Zr)-modified MoTe2 monolayer on the hazardous gases CO, CH3CHO, and C6H6 based on the density functional theory. The [...] Read more.
This study investigates the adsorption characteristics of the pristine MoTe2 monolayer and the metal atom (Co, V, W, Zr)-modified MoTe2 monolayer on the hazardous gases CO, CH3CHO, and C6H6 based on the density functional theory. The adsorption mechanism was studied from the perspectives of molecular density differences, band structures, molecular orbitals, and the density of states. Research analysis showed that the changes in conductivity caused by the adsorption of different gases on the substrate were significantly different, which can be used to prepare gas sensing materials with selective sensitivity for CO, CH3CHO, and C6H6. This study lays a reliable theoretical foundation for the gas sensing analysis of toxic and hazardous gases using metal atom-modified MoTe2 materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-Functional Materials for Sensor Applications—2nd Edition)
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Review

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40 pages, 9873 KiB  
Review
Luminescent Lanthanide Infinite Coordination Polymers for Ratiometric Sensing Applications
by Ziqin Song, Yuanqiang Hao, Yunfei Long, Peisheng Zhang, Rongjin Zeng, Shu Chen and Wansong Chen
Molecules 2025, 30(2), 396; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30020396 - 18 Jan 2025
Viewed by 416
Abstract
Ratiometric lanthanide coordination polymers (Ln-CPs) are advanced materials that combine the unique optical properties of lanthanide ions (e.g., Eu3+, Tb3+, Ce3+) with the structural flexibility and tunability of coordination polymers. These materials are widely used in biological [...] Read more.
Ratiometric lanthanide coordination polymers (Ln-CPs) are advanced materials that combine the unique optical properties of lanthanide ions (e.g., Eu3+, Tb3+, Ce3+) with the structural flexibility and tunability of coordination polymers. These materials are widely used in biological and chemical sensing, environmental monitoring, and medical diagnostics due to their narrow-band emission, long fluorescence lifetimes, and excellent resistance to photobleaching. This review focuses on the composition, sensing mechanisms, and applications of ratiometric Ln-CPs. The ratiometric fluorescence mechanism relies on two distinct emission bands, which provides a self-calibrating, reliable, and precise method for detection. The relative intensity ratio between these bands varies with the concentration of the target analyte, enabling real-time monitoring and minimizing environmental interference. This ratiometric approach is particularly suitable for detecting trace analytes and for use in complex environments where factors like background noise, temperature fluctuations, and light intensity variations may affect the results. Finally, we outline future research directions for improving the design and synthesis of ratiometric Ln-CPs, such as incorporating long-lifetime reference luminescent molecules, exploring near-infrared emission systems, and developing up-conversion or two-photon luminescent materials. Progress in these areas could significantly broaden the scope of ratiometric Ln-CP applications, especially in biosensing, environmental monitoring, and other advanced fields. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-Functional Materials for Sensor Applications—2nd Edition)
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32 pages, 16379 KiB  
Review
Electrochemical Sensing Strategies for Synthetic Orange Dyes
by Dihua Wu, Jiangwei Zhu, Yuhong Zheng and Li Fu
Molecules 2024, 29(21), 5026; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29215026 - 24 Oct 2024
Viewed by 4016
Abstract
This review explores electrochemical sensing strategies for synthetic orange dyes, addressing the growing need for sensitive and selective detection methods in various industries. We examine the fundamental principles underlying the electrochemical detection of these compounds, focusing on their redox behavior and interaction with [...] Read more.
This review explores electrochemical sensing strategies for synthetic orange dyes, addressing the growing need for sensitive and selective detection methods in various industries. We examine the fundamental principles underlying the electrochemical detection of these compounds, focusing on their redox behavior and interaction with electrode surfaces. The review covers a range of sensor designs, from unmodified electrodes to advanced nanomaterial-based platforms. Chemically modified electrodes incorporating polymers and molecularly imprinted polymers are discussed for their enhanced selectivity. Particular attention is given to nanomaterial-based sensors, including those utilizing carbon nanotubes, graphene derivatives, and metal nanoparticles, which have demonstrated exceptional sensitivity and wide linear ranges. The potential of biological-based approaches, such as DNA interaction sensors and immunosensors, is also evaluated. Current challenges in the field are addressed, including matrix effects in complex samples and long-term stability issues. Emerging trends are highlighted, including the development of multi-modal sensing platforms and the integration of artificial intelligence for data analysis. The review concludes by discussing the commercial potential of these sensors in food safety, environmental monitoring, and smart packaging applications, emphasizing their importance in ensuring the safe use of synthetic orange dyes across industries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-Functional Materials for Sensor Applications—2nd Edition)
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15 pages, 3362 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Luminophores for Enhanced Electrochemiluminescence Analysis
by Zhihan Han, Hao Ding and Dechen Jiang
Molecules 2024, 29(20), 4857; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29204857 - 13 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1622
Abstract
Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) detection is widely applied in many fields, including chemical measurement, biological analysis, and clinic tests, due to its high sensitivity. Currently, the fast development of many new electrochemical luminophores is continuously improving the ECL-based detection ability. Besides the enhancement of luminescence [...] Read more.
Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) detection is widely applied in many fields, including chemical measurement, biological analysis, and clinic tests, due to its high sensitivity. Currently, the fast development of many new electrochemical luminophores is continuously improving the ECL-based detection ability. Besides the enhancement of luminescence emission for a high detection sensitivity, minimizing the effect of co-reactants on ECL detection and achieving multiple analysis in one sample are also the main directions in this field. This review focuses on a summary of recently prepared new luminophores to achieve the three aims mentioned above. Especially, the review is composed by three parts, focusing on the luminophores or materials with high ECL efficiency, self-enhancing properties, and multi-color ECL luminophores. The fabrication of biosensors using these molecules is also reviewed to exhibit the advances in biological applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-Functional Materials for Sensor Applications—2nd Edition)
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