Home > News > Nanotechnology electronic noses
November 15th, 2007
Nanotechnology electronic noses
Abstract:
The concept of e-noses - electronic devices which mimic the olfactory systems of mammals and insects - is very intriguing to researchers involved in building better, cheaper and smaller sensor devices. A better understanding of the reception, signal transduction and odor recognition mechanisms for mammals, combined with achievements in material science, microelectronics and computer science has led to significant advances in this area. Nevertheless, the olfactory system of even the simplest insects is so complex that it is still impossible to reproduce it at the current level of technology. For example, the biological receptors are regularly replaced during the life of mammals in a very reliable way so that the receptor array does not require to be recalibrated. The performance of existing artificial electronic nose devices is much more dependent on the sensor's aging and, especially, the sensor's replacement and frequently require a recalibration to account for change. Moreover, current electronic nose devices based on metal oxide semiconductors or conducting polymers that specifically identify gaseous odorants are typically large and expensive and thus not adequate for use in micro- or nano-arrays that could mimic the performance of the natural olfactory system. Nanotechnology is seen as a key in advancing e-nose devices to a level that will match the olfactory systems developed by nature. Nanowire chemiresistors are seen as critical elements in the future miniaturization of e-noses. It is now also believed that single crystal nanowires are most stable sensing elements what will result in extending of life-time of sensors and therefore the recalibration cycle. Last year we reported on a research effort Towards The Nanoscopic Electronic Nose. Scientists involved in this effort now report a second-generation, far more advanced e-nose system based on metal oxide nanowires.
Source:
nanowerk.com
Bookmark:
Sensors
New Nanopore Sensor Simplifies Analysis of Methylated DNA May 20th, 2013
Advancements and developments of solid-state nanopores sensors May 16th, 2013
Imec and Renesas collaborate on ultra-low power short range radios: Collaboration will develop robust wireless solutions for future electronics May 16th, 2013
Physicists discover a new kind of friction: Friction in the nano-world May 16th, 2013
Interviews/Book Reviews/Essays/Reports/Podcasts/Journals
Nanoparticle Delivers Large Protein Complex to Cancer Cell Nucleus May 20th, 2013
Protein 'Passport' Helps Nanoparticles Get Past Immune System May 20th, 2013
Nanoparticle Harnesses Powerful Radiation Therapy for Cancer May 20th, 2013
Microneedle-Delivered Nanoparticles Boost Antitumor Vaccines May 20th, 2013