Portable chemical sensors that are of low size, weight, and power (SWaP) can provide situational awareness in a variety of occupational and environmental settings. We are developing a low cost colorimetric sensor array, which when combined with real-time electronic instrument-based analysis, discriminates between a range of chemical analytes. Colorimetry provides quantitative analysis by monitoring color changes associated with chemical reactions either via visual inspection or instrument-based measurements. Sensitive vapor-phase colorimetric chemical detection depends not only on dye selection and immobilization, but also on the electronics used for imaging, processing, and subsequent analysis. One method to improve sensor sensitivity is via continuous dye illumination using light emitting diodes (LEDs) and measurement of reflected light with a photodiode, resulting in an effective absorption spectrum for each dye, which changes upon chemical exposure. Optimizing the dye chemistry, imaging techniques, and alarm detection algorithms has resulted in the development of a portable, vapor-based chemical sensor that provides real-time detection of toxic and hazardous agents.

Vapor-phase chemical detection using a wearable colorimetric spectrometer

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.