Nano- and micro-gap electrochemical transducers: Novel benchtop fabrication techniques and electrical migration effects

Redox feedback mechanisms can be exploited in electroanalytical detection right to the limit of single molecules being observed. The process relies on anode and cathode being placed extremely close together to minimize diffusion time. In addition to the more complex and expensive nanofabrication tools, there are attempts of “benchtop” micro-gap and nano-gap fabrication to exploit deposition and etch reactions in the assembly. An overview is given summarizing recent methodology development and emerging applications in electroanalysis. One important implication of a very close anode-to-cathode distance is migration of ions in a strong electric field when no electrolyte is used, leading to ion accumulation and a change in signal amplification. Phenomena of this type and geometry/functional implications are considered.