2024-08-09
Researchers from the University of Southampton and the Advanced Institute of Science and Technology in Japan have developed a graphene-based sensor capable of detecting indoor air pollution with exceptional precision. This breakthrough, recently published in Science Advances, allows the sensor to detect carbon dioxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from building materials and furniture. With the increasing health issues related to indoor air pollution, existing environmental sensors are limited by their inability to detect these harmful chemicals at concentrations as low as parts per billion (ppb), which is often below their detection threshold. The newly developed graphene sensor operates by allowing individual carbon dioxide molecules to adsorb onto the graphene material when powered, detecting their concentration at the molecular level through changes in the material's electrical resistance. In experiments, researchers successfully detected carbon dioxide concentrations as low as 30 ppb within minutes. This innovative research not only enhances the accuracy of indoor air quality detection but also provides a new tool for health management. The high sensitivity and rapid response of graphene sensors offer significant advantages in real-time air pollution monitoring, particularly in residential and office environments. As the technology advances and becomes more refined, it is expected that these sensors will find broader applications in areas such as smart home systems and environmental monitoring, contributing to better public health and improved quality of life.
