Pyridine Vapors Detection by an Optical Fibre Sensor

Area of Science:

• Chemical Sensors
• Materials Science
• Optical Fibers

Background:

• Pyridine vapor detection is crucial for environmental and industrial monitoring.
• Developing sensitive and selective sensors for volatile organic compounds remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel optical fiber sensor for the detection of pyridine vapors.
• To investigate the performance and optimize the fabrication of the sensing material.

Main Methods:

• A novel vapochromic material was synthesized and incorporated into a plasticized matrix (PVC, TBP, THF).
• The sensing material was immobilized onto an optical fiber using a dip-coating technique.
• The sensor's response was evaluated using a reflection setup, measuring absorbance spectra and reflected optical power.

Main Results:

• The sensing material exhibited a distinct color change from blue to pink-white in the presence of pyridine vapor.
• A linear relationship was established between the sensor's optical power output and pyridine vapor concentration.
• The sensor achieved a low detection limit of 1 ppm (v/v) for pyridine vapor.

Conclusions:

• The developed optical fiber sensor offers a sensitive and reliable method for pyridine vapor detection.
• The fabrication process, optimized for dip-coating parameters, yields effective sensing devices.
• This sensor technology holds potential for real-time monitoring applications.