Low volatility explosives like research development explosive (RDX) and pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) pose major security problems throughout the world. The most successful approach to date is the use of amplified fluorescent conjugated polymers for detection of trinitrotoluene (TNT) from the vapor phase, at parts per quadrillion levels. We have synthesized conjugated organic networks as thin films on transparent fused silica, graphene on silicon, and graphene on ITO substrates. The fluorescence of these materials responds to RDX vapor, which is 1000 times less volatile than TNT. The networks' synthesis, characterization, and response to explosive vapors will be presented.

Conjugated carbon networks for detection of explosives

244th National Meeting (2012)

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