Researchers from Dartmouth College, the University of Oregon, and Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology have unveiled a groundbreaking sensor capable of detecting nitric oxide (NO) with exceptional sensitivity and selectivity. Published in the journal Angewandte Chemie on December 12, 2024, this innovative material is a copper-containing, electrically conductive two-dimensional metal-organic framework (2D-cMOF).
Nitric oxide plays a critical role in both environmental monitoring and medicine. Its presence in the atmosphere, primarily from fossil fuel combustion, contributes to air pollution, while in the medical field, it serves as a vital biomarker for conditions like asthma.
The new 2D-cMOF sensor operates effectively at room temperature and low voltage (0.1 V), achieving a detection limit of approximately 1.8 parts per billion (ppb). Notably, it can be reused for at least seven cycles without requiring regeneration, making it a practical option for various applications.
Traditional chemiresistive sensors have faced challenges such as cross-reactivity and limited reusability. The innovative approach taken by the research team involved creating a more crystalline structure through a unique synthetic strategy, enhancing the material’s performance. The sensor demonstrates a pronounced response to NO even in the presence of moisture, distinguishing it effectively from other gases like nitrogen dioxide and ammonia.
Dr. Katherine Mirica, an associate professor at Dartmouth College and a leading researcher on this project, noted that the copper ions within the framework are crucial for binding NO, contributing to the material's high sensitivity. The ability to detect NO reversibly opens new avenues for environmental monitoring and medical diagnostics, potentially leading to better air quality management and improved asthma treatment protocols.