Low Cost Repeatable Bio-FET Sensing

ABSTRACT: The Triton team proposes to develop techniques for fabrication and characterization of high performance biofunctionalized field effect transistors (bio-FETs) for sensing applications. Nanoscale electronic materials such as silicon nanowires, carbon nanotubes and graphene are promising materials for biosensing applications. Field effect transistors (FETs) using nanomaterials have been demonstrated to be a powerful sensing platform due to their high surface area-to-volume ratio. However, the performance characteristics, device-to-device reproducibility and reliability of bio-FET devices are still elusive. For sensor applications, well-defined and repeatable current response of the FET device characteristics is needed. The team will demonstrate reliable and well-characterized bio-FETs amenable to biofunctionalization to function in flow-through modules in biological fluids like sweat, saliva or serum. Analysis-of-alternatives will be performed to down-select, based on performance, the appropriate nanomaterial (Si NWs, graphene, CNT, etc.) for the bio-FET device. This analysis will target the objectives of narrowing FET sensor variability and feasibility for low-cost using much of the existing large-scale production infrastructure. BENEFIT: Many of the emerging and most promising FET technologies do not provide the reliability needed for real-world military applications. Development of a reliable nanoscale bio-FET will provide a viable sensor capability that realizes the potential for improved performance and reduced cost of sensor production. Military applications for this technology include advanced sensors for chem-bio, human performance monitoring and man-machine interfaces. Commercial applications include sensors for healthcare and environmental monitoring. Sensor modules can also find use with law enforcement and first responders.