Electrode Array Charge Density Focusing for Sensor Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for depositing active species on electrode surfaces lack precision in controlling the location and density of attachment, limiting the sensitivity and selectivity of sensors and catalytic processes.
Innovation Solution
A method involving an electrode array with a functional surface that focuses charge density through a counter electrode, allowing for precise electrochemical modification and deposition of active species at the apex of surface structures, enhancing both kinetic and thermodynamic efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If chemical immobilisation is used to deposit active species on a SAM functionalised electrode, then the entire SAM surface becomes covered with active species, but precise spatial control of attachment location is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating regions with different functional properties on the electrode surface. Specifically, it uses a SAM with terminal reactive functional groups in one region and a different terminal group or no SAM in another region, allowing selective attachment of active species only to the reactive functional group region while maintaining high coverage where attachment occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode surface is segmented into distinct functional zones: a SAM-functionalised region with terminal reactive groups for active species attachment, and a non-functionalised region or region with different terminal groups that serves as a reference or control area. This segmentation enables spatially resolved electrochemical measurements and selective deposition.
2Quantity of substance
If conventional electrochemical deposition methods are used, then active species can be deposited on the electrode surface, but the location and density of attachment cannot be precisely controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates local quality differences by functionalising only specific regions of the electrode surface with SAMs containing terminal reactive groups. This allows electrochemical deposition to occur selectively in these functionalised regions, achieving both adequate coverage and precise spatial control of active species attachment location and density.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach increases the rate of catalysis and reduces energy required for redox reactions, achieving higher sensitivity and selectivity in electrochemical processes by focusing charge density at specific locations on the electrode array.
Implementation Method 1
establishing a current or voltage between the functional surface on the electrode layer and the counter electrode such that the charge density is focussed at the functional surface
Implementation Method 2
the active species is electrochemically modified following contact with the functional surface
Implementation Method 3
depositing or removal of binding layers, binding agents, active species or other functionality
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is directed to a method of focussing charge density (voltage or current) at a functional surface on an electrode array, the method comprising the steps of:a. providing an electrode array comprising:i. a support substrate;ii. at least one surface structure protruding from an upper surface of the support substrate wherein the surface structure includes an electrode layer;iii. a functional surface on the electrode layer, wherein the functional surface is on an upper portion of the at least one surface structure and wherein the functional surface is adapted to contact an active species in a conductive solution;b. exposing the surface structure to the conductive solution comprising an active species, in which a counter electrode is positioned; andc. establishing a current or voltage between the functional surface on the electrode layer and the counter electrode such that the charge density is focussed at the functional surface on the electrode layer.The invention is also directed to electrode arrays that may be used in that method.