Warfare Gas Detection at Trace Level Using a Multiple SAW Sensor Approach Based on Functionalized Nanodiamond Coatings

摘要

We have investigated the performances of Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) transducers for the detection of toxic gases. SAW sensors are indeed promising because they can be operated at room temperature, offer high sensitivity and can potentially be mass-manufactured. However, the selectivity of such acoustic sensors requires the use of sensitive layers that when deposited on the transducer's surface may affect drastically the wave propagation and therefore the reliability of the sensors. Hence, strong efforts were dedicated to develop new concepts for sensitive coatings that remain very thin so as not to alter the acoustical properties of the device, very stable, and very versatile for the immobilization of selective receptors. In this scope we have developed a novel approach based on the use of Nanodiamonds (NDs).