Unprecedented Multifunctionality in Novel Monophase Micro/Nanostructured Ti‐Zn Alloy

Abstract

AbstractIt is always challenging to integrate multiple functions into one material system. However, those materials/devices will address society's critical global challenges and technological demands if achieved with innovative design strategies and engineering. Here, one such material with a broader spectrum of desired properties appropriate for seven applications is identified and explored, and a glucose‐sensing‐triggered energy‐storage mechanism is demonstrated. To date, the Titanium (Ti)‐Zinc (Zn) binary alloys are investigated only as mixed phases and for a maximum of three applications. In contrast, the novel single phase of structurally stable 50 Ti‐50 Zn (Ti0.5Zn0.5) is synthesized and proven suitable for seven emerging applications. Interestingly, it is thermally stable up to 750 °C and possesses excellent mechanical, tribological properties and corrosion resistance. While exceptional biocompatibility is evident even up to a concentration of 500 µg mL−1, the antibacterial activity against E. coli is also seen. Further, rapid detection and superior selectivity for glucose, along with supercabattery behavior, unambiguously demonstrate that this novel monophase is a remarkable multifunctional material than the existing mixed‐phase Ti‐Zn compounds. The coin‐cell supercapacitor shows outstanding stability up to 30 000 cycles with >100% retention capacity. This allows us to prototype a glucose‐sensing‐triggered energy‐storage‐device system for wearable point‐of‐care diagnostic applications.