Colorimetric sensor arrays for volatile organic compounds

Anal Chem. 2006 Jun 1;78(11):3591-600. doi: 10.1021/ac052111s.

Abstract

The development of a low-cost, sensitive colorimetric sensor array for the detection and identification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is reported. Using an array composed of chemoresponsive dyes, enormous discriminatory power is possible in a simple device that can be imaged easily with an ordinary flatbed scanner. Excellent differentiation of closely related organic compounds can be achieved, and a library of 100 VOCs is presented. The array discriminates among VOCs by probing a wide range of intermolecular interactions, including Lewis acid/base, Brønsted acid/base, metal ion coordination, hydrogen bonding, and dipolar interactions. Importantly, by proper choice of dyes and substrate, the array is essentially nonresponsive to changes in humidity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Biosensing Techniques / instrumentation*
  • Biosensing Techniques / methods*
  • Colorimetry / methods
  • Kinetics
  • Organic Chemicals / chemistry*
  • Silicon Dioxide / chemistry
  • Solutions
  • Volatilization

Substances

  • Organic Chemicals
  • Solutions
  • Silicon Dioxide