Molecular-scale bio-sensing using armchair graphene

We evaluate the transport properties performance of armchair graphene nanoribbons (AGNRs) with a bio-molecule assembly as potential molecular-scale biosensors (Anthracene). The bio-molecules are assumed to be absorbed at the edge of an AGNR, and to behave as quasi-1D systems. The transport spectrum and density of states (DOS) are calculated using a single-band tight-binding Hamiltonian representation, and a non-equilibrium Greens function formalism. Doping with boron and nitride atoms and its impact on the transport properties has also been evaluated. Significant changes in transmission and increase in DOS by 200% are observed when the Anthracene molecule is interacting with the AGNR. Boron and Nitrogen doping allow to increase current flows at constant voltage by 50% on average. There results suggest potential significant scope on using AGNRs for bio-devices based on either conductance or electroluminescence. (C) 2012 American Institute of Physics. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.4733689]