Conventional chemical sensors generally do not provide precise measurements. In contrast, KU Leuven’s metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) measure not only the quantity of gas molecules but also their movement speed, opening up a wide range of potential applications.
MOFs? These can be envisioned as a lattice, a porous network of inorganic metal ions and organic molecules. By measuring the speed at which gas molecules move through the nanopores, scientists can determine which gases are present. This is known as kinetic selectivity, essentially a form of flash control for molecules. Moreover, the lattice can be precisely tailored to the target gas, even when it is present in very low concentrations or mixed within a complex gas mixture.
This advanced, scalable electronic 'nose' opens up countless applications in chemistry, medicine, safety, and beyond. Potential applications include detecting drugs and explosives, identifying chemical leaks, measuring indoor and outdoor air quality, checking the freshness of fruit and vegetables, and enabling early diagnosis of diabetes, among others.
A testament to KU Leuven’s technological ingenuity.
