Janus-micromotor-based on–off luminescence sensor for active TNT detection

An active TNT (2,4,6-trinitrotoluene) catalytic sensor based on Janus upconverting nanoparticle (UCNP)-functionalized micromotor capsules, displaying “on–off” luminescence with a low limit of detection has been developed. The Janus capsule motors were fabricated by layer-by-layer assembly of UCNP-functionalized polyelectrolyte microcapsules, followed by sputtering of a platinum layer onto one half of the capsule. By catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide to oxygen bubbles, the Janus UCNP capsule motors are rapidly propelled with a speed of up to 110 μm s−1. Moreover, the Janus motors display efficient on–off luminescent detection of TNT. Owing to the unique motion of the Janus motor with bubble generation, the likelihood of collision with TNT molecules and the reaction rate between them are increased, resulting in a limit of detection as low as 2.4 ng mL−1 TNT within 1 minute. Such bubble-propelled Janus UCNP capsule motors have great potential for contaminated water analysis.