May 2, 2025
Trending News

Scientists have developed a sensor that can detect chemicals wirelessly

  • March 19, 2024
  • 0

Researchers have developed a revolutionary sensor capable of detecting wireless chemical warfare agents, representing a major advance in public safety technology. Able to identify substances such as dimethyl


Researchers have developed a revolutionary sensor capable of detecting wireless chemical warfare agents, representing a major advance in public safety technology. Able to identify substances such as dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP), this innovative device offers a new level of efficiency and reliability in monitoring and responding to chemical threats without the need for direct power supplies or physical connections.


The urgent need for improved detection of chemical warfare agents (CWA) to ensure global security has led to the development of a new gas sensor. This sensor is characterized by fast response, high sensitivity and compact size, which are crucial for the early detection of CWA. Accurate detection and monitoring of CWA is vital for effective defense operations, both military and civilian. Due to the hazardous nature of CWA, research is generally limited to authorized laboratories using simulants that mimic the chemical structure of CWA without its toxic effects.

Research results and capabilities of sensors

A new peer-reviewed study was published January 3, 2024 in the journal micros you bodies and nanoengineering has developed an advanced sensor that wirelessly identifies chemical warfare agents, revolutionizing security measures. This device effectively detects DMMPs, increasing threat response capabilities without relying on power or connectivity.

In the study, researchers developed a passive wireless sensor system that uses surface acoustic wave (SAW) technology to revolutionize the detection of chemical warfare agents specifically targeting dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP), a nerve agent mimetic. This sensor operates at a frequency of 433 MHz using a unique polysiloxane fluoroalcohol (SXFA) coating on a lithium niobate substrate, which increases its sensitivity and stability in various environmental conditions.

Schematic diagram and working principle of the proposed SAW chemical sensor. Author: Microsystems and Nanoengineering

The core of the system is built around an YZ lithium niobate substrate equipped with metal flip-up converters (IDTs) and an attached antenna. The interaction of the SXFA film with DMMP alters SAW properties such as speed, allowing accurate detection. This design provides stable operation over a 0-90 cm transmission range and is resistant to a wide temperature range (-30°C to 100°C) and humidity levels up to 60% RH.

According to the research team, this sensor system represents a significant step forward in CWA sensing technology. Its passive wireless structure ensures safety and efficiency by allowing it to operate in hard-to-reach or dangerous places.

This technology has tremendous potential in military and civil defense applications and offers reliable and effective tools for early detection of CWA. Its ability to operate wirelessly and in harsh environments makes it a valuable tool for public safety and preparedness against chemical threats.


Source: Port Altele

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Exit mobile version