Integration of nanomaterial sensing layers on printable organic field effect transistors for highly sensitive and stable biochemical signal conversion

Abstract

Organic field effect transistor (OFET) devices are one of the most popular candidates for the development of biochemical sensors due to their merits of being flexible and highly customizable for low-cost large-area manufacturing. This review describes the key points in constructing an extended-gate type OFET (EGOFET) biochemical sensor with high sensitivity and stability. The structure and working mechanism of OFET biochemical sensors are described firstly, emphasizing the importance of critical material and device engineering to higher biochemical sensing capabilities. Next, printable materials used to construct sensing electrodes (SEs) with high sensitivity and stability are presented with a focus on novel nanomaterials. Then, methods of obtaining printable OFET devices with steep subthreshold swing (SS) for high transconductance efficiency are introduced. Finally, approaches for the integration of OFETs and SEs to form portable biochemical sensor chips are introduced, followed by several demonstrations of sensory systems. This review will provide guidelines for optimizing the design and manufacturing of OFET biochemical sensors and accelerating the movement of OFET biochemical sensors from the laboratory to the marketplace.