Nanosensors: a review of recent research

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to provide a technical review of recent nanosensor research. Design/methodology/approach - This paper describes a number of nanosensor research themes and recent development activities, with an emphasis on work conducted or reported since 2006. It considers a range of emerging nanosensing technologies and two specific areas of application. Findings - This paper shows that nanosensor technology is developing rapidly and is the subject of a global research effort. Technologies such as nano-electromechanical system, nano-opto-electromechanical system, nanophotonics and the combination of nanotechnology with microtechnology offer prospects to yield sensors for a wide range of chemical, biochemical and physical variables in applications which include healthcare, defence and homeland security, environmental monitoring and light sensing and imaging. Originality/value - This paper provides a technically detailed, up-to-date account of recent nanosensor research.