Nanostring-cluster hierarchical structured Bi2O3: synthesis, evolution and application in biosensing

Abstract

In the present study, a simple strategy was developed to fabricate a new Bi₂O₃ nanostring-cluster hierarchical structure. Precursor microrods composed of Bi(C₂O₄)OH were initially grown under hydrothermal conditions. After calcination in air, Bi(C₂O₄)OH microrods were carved into unique string-cluster structures by the gas produced during the decomposition process. To explain the formation mechanism, the effects of pyrolysis temperature and time on the morphology of the as-prepared samples were investigated and are discussed in detail. It was discovered that the nanostring-cluster-structured Bi₂O₃ consists of thin nanoplatelet arrays, which is advantageous for glucose enzyme immobilization and for designing biosensors. The resulting Bi₂O₃ structure showed an excellent capability in the modification of electrode surfaces in biosensors by enhancing the sensitivity, with good specificity and response time. Such qualities of a biosensor are ideal characteristics for glucose sensing performance and allow for further explorations of its application in other fields.