Gas Detection Nanosensors Developed

Nader Alizadeh and Sajjad Pirsa, researchers from Tarbiat Modarres University in Tehran, have developed nanosensors for gas leak detection through polymerization of pyrrole.

The formation of nanostructured polymers over the nanosensor’s surface increases its interfacial area with the gas such that detection at ultra-low concentration levels is enabled, Fars News Agency reported.

The research was aimed at synthesis of accurate sensors for identifying pollutants or toxic gases whose detection and analysis are of interest for particular purposes.

Accordingly, the researchers prepared anion-doped polypyrrole samples by adoption of both the solvent and vapor phase polymerization techniques. Based on the obtained results, the polymer films synthesized within the solvent phase exhibit higher electrical conductance and allow creation of more sensitive and high-resolution gas detection sensors.

“We analyzed the FT-IR spectrums for the synthesized polymers to conclude that solfunated compounds have been embedded well within the polymer matrices. Utilization of conducting nanostructured polymers as well as the choice of a suitable anion dopant type are among key features of the research that has led to the precise nanosensor that maintains favorable performance at low temperatures and offers a conveniently short response time,” Pirsa said.