In this context, we propose here a new approach where diamond
can be used as an active solid phase material exhibiting very versatile
and robust functionalization properties. Diamond exhibits many
singular physical and chemical properties that drewthe attention of numerous
research groups with many and varied activities [9]. Its highest
hardness associated to tremendous resilience gives diamond outstandingmechanical
properties. Furthermore the high bonding energy of sp3
carbon bonds offers several unique features. For instance, diamond exhibits
high working temperatures, total inertia toward ionization radiations
and a chemical inertness. In terms of surface chemistry, diamond
benefits from the usual carbon chemistry. Many functionalization
routes are available not only in organic but also in aqueous phases. It
provides access to the grafting of a wide range of cheap chemicals and
so to numerous terminal moieties. Moreover, several functionalization
ways lead to the formation of highly stable C–C covalent bonds. At
last, diamond can be grown at a lowcost to be either a highly insulating
material or a conductive medium when doped with boron. Heavily
boron doped diamond gives rise to an electrode material with a very
large potential window in water and a low background current. The association
of these two singular properties ensures diamond electrodes'
unique perspectives in terms of detection, water treatment and
depollution processes in water [10]. Besides its intrinsic antifouling capabilities
[11], unusual defouling processes have also been made available
[12], that allows a complete regeneration of the diamond
electrode surfaces. This opens up the field for the detection of a large
amount of species involving a fast, complete and irreversible fouling of
usual electrodes through surface polymerization [16]. It also allows detection
in media with high fouling capabilities, such as milk, blood and
mud, without the need of electrode replacement or abrasion.