Detection of explosive markers using zeolite modified gas sensors

Abstract

Detection of hidden explosive devices is a key priority for security and defence personnel around the globe. Electronic noses, based on metal oxide semiconductors (MOS), are a promising technology for creating inexpensive, portable and sensitive devices for such a purpose. An array of seven MOS gas sensors was fabricated by screen printing, based on WO₃ and In₂O₃ inks. The sensors were tested against six gases, including four explosive markers: nitromethane, DMNB (2,3-dimetheyl-2,3-dinitrobutane), 2-ethylhexanol and ammonia. The gases were successfully detected with good sensitivity and selectivity from the array. Sensitivity was improved by overlaying or admixing the oxides with two zeolites, H-ZSM-5 and TS-1, and each showed improved responses to –NO₂ and –OH moieties respectively. Admixtures in particular showed promise, with excellent sensitivity and good stability to humidity. Machine learning techniques were applied to a subset of the data and could accurately classify the gases detected, even when confounding factors were introduced.