Enhanced amperometric detection of glucose using Si ₂₉ particles

The 1 nm Si29 particle is used as the sensing element for an enzyme-free amperometric electrochemical glucose sensor. The sensor shows selective glucose detection against interfering substances at physiological concentrations with long-term stability, reusability, and the absence of electrode poisoning. The Si29 particle is significantly more efficient in generating signal current compared to both dissolved and immobilized enzyme. This observation suggests that the particle can be used to replace enzyme in making glucose sensors and that the particle is a suitable material for the realization of nanoscale devices that generate signals sufficiently high for use.