Transition metals tailoring of phosphorus-doped gallium nitride nanotubes as sensors for N-butenyl homoserine lactone (BHL): A computational study

Abstract

This investigation is focused on the impact of transition metals (Ag, Au, and Cu) encapsulations of phosphorus-doped gallium nitride nanotubes (P@GaNNTs) to achieve precise detection and sensing of N-Butenyl homoserine lactone (BHL), which is a biomarker for urinary tract infection, within the framework of density functional theory (DFT) computation at the B3LYP-D3(BJ)/def2SVP method. Adsorption studies unveil the adsorption energies for BHL detection across the systems, with BHL_Cu_P@GaNNT displaying the most favorable adsorption energy of −1.79247 eV and BSSE correction (−1.7685 eV). Additionally, sensor mechanisms are elucidated through Fermi energy level (E_FL) calculations, revealing distinct values of 4.748, 4.242, 5.052, and 3.864 for BHL_Ag_P@GaNNT, BHL_Au_P@GaNNT, BHL_Cu_P@GaNNT, and BHL_P@GaNNT, respectively. These values signify variances in charge transfer dynamics upon BHL interaction. In essence, this study lays the foundation for the development of highly efficient biosensors with exceptional biomarker detection capabilities, particularly in the context of urinary tract infections (UTIs). It opens new avenues in the realm of biosensing technology, promising innovative solutions for healthcare and diagnostics.