Inkjet printed colorimetric ammonia sensor on plastic foil for low-cost and low-power devices

Abstract

A polymeric-based colorimetric gas sensor with its associated electronics targeting ammonia detection at low-cost and low-power is presented. The gas sensitive layer was inkjet printed on a plastic foil used as an optical waveguide. The planar configuration of the sensor makes it compatible with large scale fabrication techniques, such as rollto-roll processes. Its power consumption and noise level were measured. The sensor exhibited a good sensitivity to ammonia with a theoretical limit of detection of 104 ppb in a constant operation mode. The power consumption was reduced to the submW range when operating in pulsed mode. It foresees applications in the field of wireless systems, for environmental and safety monitoring.