Département de chimie moléculaire

Carbon nanomaterial gained high interest for bioelectrochemical applications like biosensors and biofuel cells related to excellent conductivities, well-established (bio) functionalization methods, and high surface area to immobilize a high number of biomolecules preserving accessibility for its substrate (analyte or fuel). Besides the huge varieties of different nanosized carbon structures, the principal materials used in this field are carbon nanotubes and graphene. However, within these carbon allotropes, there are tremendous differences in physical and chemical properties related to different production methods which affect processabilities and, therefore, the appropriateness for an envisioned application. Here, the historical evolution of these carbon nanomaterials is summarized with the focus on the different properties of carbon nanotubes and graphene materials. For bioelectrical applications, some of these carbon materials are more beneficial than others in terms of immobilization and wiring of bioreceptor units and biocatalysts. The chemical composition and specific domains of the biomolecules can establish efficient interactions with the carbon materials and can be improved with targeted functionalization strategies. The aim of this review is to provide a pedagogic summary of the different properties of carbon nanotubes and graphene materials from a chemical point of view citing most relevant reviews and discussing original strategies to form operational bio-assemblies for analysis and biological energy conversion.