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Optical waveguide BTX gas sensor based on polyacrylate resin thin film
Razak Kadir1, Abliz Yimit, Hayrensa Ablat
1College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830046, PR China.
Environmental Science & Technology
|August 14, 2009
Summary
A novel optical sensor detects benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX) using a polyacrylate resin film on a waveguide. This sensor shows rapid, reversible changes, detecting BTX down to 8 ppm.
Area of Science:
- Optoelectronics
- Chemical Sensing
- Materials Science
Background:
- Optical sensors offer sensitive detection methods.
- Polyacrylate resins exhibit gas absorption properties.
- Developing selective BTX detection is crucial for environmental and safety monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel optical sensor for detecting benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX).
- To investigate the sensing mechanism based on changes in transmittance and refractive index.
- To evaluate the sensor's sensitivity and response to BTX.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of an optical waveguide coated with a polyacrylate resin thin film via spin coating.
- Utilizing prism couplers for optical coupling with diiodomethane.
- Measuring changes in transmittance and refractive index upon exposure to BTX.
Main Results:
- The polyacrylate film demonstrated strong absorption of oil gases.
- Exposure to benzene caused rapid and reversible changes in the film's transmittance and refractive index.
- The sensor detected BTX at concentrations below 8 ppm.
Conclusions:
- The developed optical sensor is sensitive to BTX.
- The sensor's performance relies on the reversible changes in optical properties of the polyacrylate film.
- This technology holds promise for low-concentration BTX detection.
