Carbon Nanotubes and Fullerenes: Promising Materials for Biosensor Technology

Abstract

Biosensor technology is one of the leading technologies to detect environmental pollutants, drug molecules, proteins, enzymes, and diseases. Conventional technology is used to detect diseases with high precision. However, these technologies are ineffective in early-stage detection of diseases. Therefore, newer biosensor technology is required for early detection of various diseases, including cancer. With the help of nanomaterials/nanotechnology (NMs) and materials engineering, researchers continue to focus on developing novel biosensor technologies. Carbon-based materials like carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and fullerenes are the most promising materials for developing biosensors. The extraordinary characteristics of the CNTs and fullerenes, such as high surface area, high electrical and mechanical properties, and easy functionalization, make them an appropriate candidate for the development of biosensors. In this chapter, our focus is mainly on synthesizing CNTs and fullerenes, surface functionalization, and its application in cancer and microorganism detection. © 2024 by Apple Academic Press, Inc.