Issue 31, 2020

Harnessing biological applications of quantum materials: opportunities and precautions

Abstract

Since the discovery of graphene, research on two-dimensional (2D) quantum materials has generated a plethora of novel materials with the potential to significantly change our lives. Owing to their unique quantum, electronic, and excitonic properties, biosensing and bio-imaging are two specific areas where these quantum materials have started to make a large impact. This article provides a holistic overview into the properties, synthesis methods, biological applications, and toxicology studies of commonly studied quantum materials. Recent research into the biological applications of graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides is highlighted and their unique electronic properties are explored. Though tremendous research is generated in discovering new 2D materials, toxicology studies in the area are lacking. Historically, toxicology studies have lagged significantly behind new material discovery often with dire consequences. The product development cycle of polymeric materials is a testament to the negative consequences of having a reactionary approach to toxicology. With 2D materials set to become a widespread part of everyday life in the near future, we comment on the need for a proactive approach to examining and understanding their toxicology.

Graphical abstract: Harnessing biological applications of quantum materials: opportunities and precautions

Article information

Article type
Highlight
Submitted
21 5 2020
Accepted
02 7 2020
First published
02 7 2020

J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020,8, 10498-10525

Author version available

Harnessing biological applications of quantum materials: opportunities and precautions

M. Modayil Korah, T. Nori, S. Tongay and M. D. Green, J. Mater. Chem. C, 2020, 8, 10498 DOI: 10.1039/D0TC02429E

To request permission to reproduce material from this article, please go to the Copyright Clearance Center request page.

If you are an author contributing to an RSC publication, you do not need to request permission provided correct acknowledgement is given.

If you are the author of this article, you do not need to request permission to reproduce figures and diagrams provided correct acknowledgement is given. If you want to reproduce the whole article in a third-party publication (excluding your thesis/dissertation for which permission is not required) please go to the Copyright Clearance Center request page.

Read more about how to correctly acknowledge RSC content.

Social activity

Spotlight

Advertisements