Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for the synthesis of nanostructures using at least one solution providing at least one chemical element appropriate for the type of nanostructure, the method comprising the steps of: a) adding (admixing) a reducing agent to the at least one solution, b) bringing a suitable substrate into contact with the at least one solution before or after step a), c) forming nucleation growth sites on the substrate and d) maintaining the temperature at a suitable level for the growth of the nanostructures, characterized by the further steps of e) providing at least one space having at least one dimension in the micron range, e.g. in the range from 1 ?m to 500 ?m, adjacent a surface of the substrate, f) growing said nanostructures in said at least one space, g) periodically separating said nanostructures from the substrate and removing them.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for detecting one or more analytes, for example analytes selected from the group comprising nucleic acids, metabolites, peptides, proteins, hormones, pesticides, neurotransmitters, ions in blood, electrolytes, toxic gases, pH and biological warfare agents, the apparatus comprising an insulating substrate, at least one first electrode on the substrate at least one elongate nanostructure extending from and electrically connected to the or each said electrode and extending over the surface of the wafer away from the respective electrode, a passivating layer covering the or each electrode, but not all of said at least one elongate nanostructure, a well crossing the at least one elongate nanostructure extending from the or each electrode and forming a static reservoir for a liquid being investigated for the presence of at least one analyte, a reference electrode provided on said substrate within said well or insertable into said well and respective readout pads electri

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for the synthesis of nanostructures using at least one solution providing at least one chemical element appropriate for the type of nanostructure, the method comprising the steps of: a) adding (admixing) a reducing agent to the at least one solution, b) bringing a suitable substrate into contact with the at least one solution before or after step a), c) forming nucleation growth sites on the substrate and d) maintaining the temperature at a suitable level for the growth of the nanostructures, characterized by the further steps of e) providing at least one space having at least one dimension in the micron range, e.g. in the range from 1 ?m to 500 ?m, adjacent a surface of the substrate, f) growing said nanostructures in said at least one space, g) periodically separating said nanostructures from the substrate and removing them.