Researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) have developed an innovative artificial "nose" utilizing common antenna technology, marking a significant advancement in the detection of food spoilage, hazardous gases, and undiagnosed diseases.
Michael Cheffena, a professor of telecommunications at NTNU, emphasized the technology's transformative potential, stating, "By giving the antennas sensor functions, the existing infrastructure can be used in new areas of application." This approach leverages readily available technology to enhance health and safety measures.
The artificial nose operates by transmitting radio signals across various frequencies and analyzing the reflections to identify unique patterns associated with different gases. Lead author Yu Dang, a doctoral research fellow at NTNU, highlighted the sensor's impressive accuracy, achieving a 96.7% success rate in distinguishing between tested gases.
What sets this sensor apart from previous electronic noses is its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Unlike earlier models that required numerous sensors and extensive power, NTNU's design employs a single antenna with a specialized coating, streamlining the detection process.
Dang noted the sensor's exceptional selectivity, particularly in differentiating isomers—compounds with identical molecular formulas but distinct structures. This has been a longstanding challenge in sensor technology, yet NTNU's innovation navigates this complexity with remarkable precision.
The technology has already shown promise in testing with damaged fruits and aged meats, and researchers plan to extend its application to disease detection. "Volatile organic compounds enable trained dogs to detect health-threatening changes in blood sugar and diseases like cancer, so the principle is largely the same," Dang explained.
Unlike dogs, this artificial nose requires no extensive training or specialized handlers, making it a practical solution for various sectors. Published in the journal Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, this breakthrough could redefine industries ranging from food safety and public health to environmental monitoring. By facilitating early detection of spoilage and hazardous gases, it not only enhances safety and reduces waste but also holds the potential for advancements in medical diagnostics.