Evaluation of graphene and graphene derivatives for RF-impedance based sensing

Graphene and its derivatives have attracted much attention for potential applications in biological sensing systems because of their unique 2D structural, surface and electronic properties. Reports on graphene - based electrochemical impedance biosensors are emerging rapidly. In this research, we have explored the RF (radio frequency) impedance - based sensing feasibility of graphene and graphene derivative materials on the coplanar waveguide (CPW) device. The transmission line based sensing experiments demonstrated clear and significant blue-shifts of resonance frequencies and decrease of the resistance at and beyond resonance frequencies after graphene oxide is absorbed with DNA. The results may lead to an alternative approach in developing graphene based chemical and biosensors. © 2011 Materials Research Society