Origami nanogap electrodes for reversible nanoparticle trapping

Itir Bakis Dogru-Yuksel*, Allard P. Mosk, Sanli Faez

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

We present a facile desktop fabrication method for origami-based nanogap indium tin oxide (ITO) electrokinetic particle traps, providing a simplified approach compared to traditional lithographic techniques and effective trapping of nanoparticles. Our approach involves bending ITO thin films on optically transparent polyethylene terephthalate (PET), creating an array of parallel nanogaps. By strategically introducing weak points through cut-sharp edges, we successfully controlled the spread of nanocracks. A single crack spanning the constriction width and splitting the conductive layers forms a nanogap that can effectively trap small nanoparticles after applying an alternating electric potential across the nanogap. We analyze the conditions for reversible trapping and optimal performance of the nanogap ITO electrodes with optical microscopy and electrokinetic impedance spectroscopy. Our findings highlight the potential of this facile fabrication method for the use of ITO at active electro-actuated traps in microfluidic systems.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)8514-8520
Number of pages7
JournalNanoscale
Volume16
Issue number17
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 22 Mar 2024

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