Metal Oxide Nanomaterials for Sensor Applications

The binding interaction of 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTS) and 5-amino- 2-mercaptobenzimidazole (AMB) with different nanoparticles was discussed. AMB and APTS adsorbs strongly on the surfaces of metal oxide nano semiconductor. The interaction of AMB and APTS with different nanoparticles was studied by absorption, fluorescence, FT-IR, SEM and EDX spectral studies. Excellent results observed were due to electron transfer between AMB and APTS and nanoparticles. To confirm the binding site of nanoparticles with AMB and APTS, molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) study was carried out theoretically. It confirmed the higher electron density at azomethine nitrogen atom. Photo-induced electron transfer is responsible for fluorescence quenching of AMB. Astonishing consequences were observed due to electron transfer from APTS to ZnO. APTS acts as a new host for ZnO metal oxide nano semiconductor.