Organic sensors for explosive detection

Abstract

Organic field effect transistors and polymer microcantilevers are two different classes of organic sensors with potential applications in biochemical sensing. Organic field effect transistors based on poly (3-hexylthiophene) and CuII tetraphenylporphyrin composite were investigated as sensors for detection of vapors of nitrobased explosive compounds. Significant changes, suitable for sensor response, were observed in transistor -on∥ current (Ion) and conductance (S) after exposure. A similar device response was, however, not observed for oxidizing agents such as benzoquinone and benzophenone. Polymer microcantilevers offer a sensitive cost effective platform for explosive gas detection. These sensors with optical and electrical transduction mechanisms were designed and fabricated using SU-8 polymer and they are further functionalized with appropriate coating for explosive detection. Optical and electrical responses of respective microcantilevers to TNT vapors are also reported here.