Eumelanins, the black insol. pigments of human skin, eyes and substantia nigra (neuromelanin), stand today as a unique source of inspiration for the design and implementation of soft biocompatible multifunctional materials for bio-optoelectronic devices. Interest in eumelanins stems from bioavailability, biocompatibility and a peculiar set of physicochem. properties, i.e. broadband absorption in the UV-visible range, intrinsic free radical character, water-dependent hybrid ionic-electronic conductor behavior, supporting optimistic feelings about a possible rise of eumelanin-mimics as innovative bioinspired solns. for org. bioelectronics. However, a no. of conceptual and technol. gaps still hinder a rapid progress of melanin-based org. electronics and bioelectronics, including in particular the limited contribution of electronic cond. and current decay with time under biasing. Herein, we provide a concise overview of the structural and optoelectronic properties of melanins with a view to bringing to focus main issues and challenges en route to bioelectronic applications.
Eumelanin-Based Organic Bioelectronics: Myth or Reality?
CRESCENZI, ORLANDO;D'ISCHIA, MARCO;
2016
Abstract
Eumelanins, the black insol. pigments of human skin, eyes and substantia nigra (neuromelanin), stand today as a unique source of inspiration for the design and implementation of soft biocompatible multifunctional materials for bio-optoelectronic devices. Interest in eumelanins stems from bioavailability, biocompatibility and a peculiar set of physicochem. properties, i.e. broadband absorption in the UV-visible range, intrinsic free radical character, water-dependent hybrid ionic-electronic conductor behavior, supporting optimistic feelings about a possible rise of eumelanin-mimics as innovative bioinspired solns. for org. bioelectronics. However, a no. of conceptual and technol. gaps still hinder a rapid progress of melanin-based org. electronics and bioelectronics, including in particular the limited contribution of electronic cond. and current decay with time under biasing. Herein, we provide a concise overview of the structural and optoelectronic properties of melanins with a view to bringing to focus main issues and challenges en route to bioelectronic applications.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
