Boron-Doped Diamond for Electrochemical Sensing: Scrutinizing the Material and Advancing Applications
Z. Liu (TU Delft - Micro and Nano Engineering)
U. Staufer – Promotor (TU Delft - Micro and Nano Engineering)
J.G. Buijnsters – Copromotor (TU Delft - Micro and Nano Engineering)
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Abstract
Boron-doped diamond (BDD) is widely regarded as a highly robust electrode material for electrochemical sensing due to its wide potential window, chemical stability, low background current, and resistance to fouling. However, despite its extensive application, the fundamental relationships between BDD material properties and electrochemical performance remain insufficiently understood. This dissertation systematically investigates boron-doped diamond from material fundamentals to scalable device implementation, with the aim of advancing its rational design for sensing applications.
Chapter 1 introduces electrochemical sensing principles and outlines the unique advantages of BDD electrodes. It discusses synthesis routes, key material characteristics, and how these properties influence electrochemical responses, forming the foundation of the research objectives.
Chapter 2 investigates microstructure–electroactivity relationships in free-standing polycrystalline BDD through spatially resolved electrochemical mapping. The study reveals how grain structure and local heterogeneity influence electrochemical activity, providing insights into structure–performance correlations.
Chapter 3 focuses on the role of sp² carbon in non-enzymatic glucose sensing using BDD electrodes. By systematically analyzing the contribution of non-diamond carbon phases, the work clarifies their impact on electrocatalytic activity and challenges common assumptions regarding the origin of electrochemical responses in BDD systems.
Chapter 4 explores heavily boron-doped diamond grown on scalable heteroepitaxial quasi-substrates. The results demonstrate pathways toward improved conductivity and scalability while maintaining desirable electrochemical properties, addressing material integration challenges.
Chapter 5 presents the fabrication of inkjet-printed BDD chip electrodes, highlighting a manufacturing-oriented approach toward miniaturized and application-ready sensing platforms. The electrochemical performance of the printed devices confirms their feasibility for practical implementation.
Finally, Chapter 6 summarizes the main findings and provides outlooks for future research directions, including further material optimization, scalable production strategies, and advanced sensing applications.
Overall, this dissertation bridges fundamental material understanding and practical device realization of boron-doped diamond electrodes. By systematically correlating microstructure, carbon phase composition, doping level, and fabrication strategy with electrochemical functionality, the work contributes to the rational development of high-performance BDD-based electrochemical sensors.