Revolutionary nanothermometers: precise temperature measurement without contact!

Revolutionary nanothermometers: precise temperature measurement without contact!

Exciting things are happening in the world of nanotechnology! Researchers have made remarkable progress in the development of luminescent nanothermometers, which are primarily based on the properties of metal-organic frameworks (MOF). These new marvels are not only miniaturized thermometers, but also non-invasive tools that can be used in nanomedicine and especially in cancer research. Lejournal reported that MOFs are composed of organic and inorganic components and have a crystalline porous structure, which has great potential for various applications.

A truly innovative aspect of this technology is the use of lanthanide-doped materials. These materials offer high accuracy and efficiency, which is why they are considered a suitable replacement for traditional thermal probes. Pubs highlights that the thermometers are stimulated by ultraviolet, visible or near-infrared light, emitting emissions in biological window areas that allow deeper tissue penetration.

How MOF works and advantages

One of the main attractions of this new thermometry is that conventional thermometers such as thermocouples are unsuitable for non-invasive applications. Instead, nanothermometry uses luminescence, using materials that emit light as a function of temperature. Hélène Brault, a lecturer at Nantes Université, is heavily involved in research into lanthanide-based MOFs. These materials allow temperatures between 100 Kelvin and room temperature to be measured and can even be used to detect cancer cells that are warmer than healthy cells.

Another advantage lies in the production of these nanoparticles. This is done either by hydrothermal methods or by microwave heating in water. The dream is to be able to carry out temperature measurements with an optical signal over long distances without having to rely on electrical connections. For example, the technology can also be used to monitor engine turbines.

The future of nanothermometry

Brault's research is supported by the Agence Nationale de la Recherche (ANR) in the “THERMOF” project and could in the future also include research into other lanthanides such as holmium and thulium. Given the multifunctional applications of MOF, such as cold chain monitoring, this technology is attracting more and more attention. By using infrared light to measure temperature in human tissue, researchers show that the possibilities are almost limitless.

These developments show that the combination of nanotechnology and modern materials can not only revolutionize healthcare, but will also find very practical applications in our daily lives. An exciting time lies ahead!