Eumelanins, the black insoluble 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 physicochemical properties, i.e. broadband absorption in the UV-visible range, intrinsic free radical character, water-dependent hybrid ionic-electronic conductor behaviour, supporting optimistic feelings about a possible rise of eumelanin-mimics as innovative bioinspired solutions for organic bioelectronics. However, a number of conceptual and technological gaps still hinder a rapid progress of melanin-based organic electronics and bioelectronics, including in particular the limited contribution of electronic conductivity 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. Copyright © Materials Research Society 2015.
Titolo: | Eumelanin-Based Organic Bioelectronics: Myth or Reality? |
Autori: | |
Data di pubblicazione: | 2016 |
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Handle: | http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12079/6004 |
Appare nelle tipologie: | 4.1 Contributo in Atti di convegno |