Laterally Grown Nanowire Sensor Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The practical application of nanowires in sensing devices is limited due to heat leakage and inability to detect small temperature changes, particularly in non-suspended nanowire sensing devices.
Innovation Solution
The development of sensors that incorporate laterally grown nanowires with multiple conductivity segments and a sensing material positioned near the connection between these segments, allowing for the detection of chemical reactions through measurable properties such as resistance changes, which can indicate the presence and quantity of reactants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If non-suspended nanowire sensing devices are used, then device structure is simpler, but heat leakage occurs and sensitivity to small temperature changes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The nanowire is divided into multiple segments with different conductivity types (n-type and p-type) arranged in a specific pattern along the wire. This segmentation creates multiple sensing zones that can detect temperature changes more effectively while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different segments of the nanowire are doped with different conductivity types to create localized regions with specific electrical properties. The sensing material is positioned at specific locations (connections between segments) to enhance local sensitivity to temperature changes while the overall device remains structurally simple.
2Measurement precision
If nanowire dimensions are reduced to enhance sensitivity, then sensing capability improves, but heat leakage becomes more significant
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the electrical parameters of the nanowire by introducing multiple segments with different conductivity types. This modification alters the thermal and electrical transport properties, enabling the nanowire to maintain high sensing capability while reducing heat leakage through the segmented structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The nanowire is constructed as a composite structure with segments of different materials or doping types (n-type and p-type semiconductors). This composite approach allows the device to achieve enhanced sensing capability through material properties while the segmented composite structure reduces heat leakage compared to a uniform nanowire.
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 enhances sensitivity to small changes in chemical reactions, reduces response time, and enables the detection of both endothermic and exothermic reactions, overcoming the limitations of heat leakage and sensitivity in existing nanowire sensors.
Implementation Method 1
The connection between the various segments of the nanowire may advantageously be electrically useful (e.g., an ohmic connection, a junction (i.e., a diode), or the like)
Implementation Method 2
The sensors incorporate nanowire(s) grown laterally between two electrodes... capable of sensing the presence and/or quantity of a reaction
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor includes at least two electrodes, and at least one nanowire extending substantially laterally between the electrodes. The at least one nanowire has at least two segments with a junction or connection formed therebetween. A sensing material changeable between at least two states is positioned adjacent to the junction or connection, and adjacent to at least a portion of each of the segments.