AZULENE BASED GUEST-HOST POLYMERIC SENSORS

摘要

In this study we present a new class of sensors based on polysilsesquioxane-azulene system, that could detect various analytes by changing their conductivity and colour. This system represents one of the first example of guest-host polymer used in the sensor field. Taking advantage of the polysilsesquioxane properties in humid environment and of the brilliant blue azulene, an isomer of naftalene with high dipolar moment, we develop polymeric thin film that could work in high humidity conditions and detect different analytes useful in water analysis in a twofold response in terms of color change and conductivity variation.