WSURF Case 789 Gas
High Surface Area Semiconductor for Gas Detection
Summary
High surface area (300-2,000 m2/g) nanomaterials research is directed towards the creation of inexpensive media for applications that require rapid and responsive sampling, selective separations or sequestering, drug delivery and high throughput catalytic processing. The wide utilization of these materials has been restricted as a result of limited methodologies for the repeatable, low cost production of nanomaterials possessing highly accessible, large surface areas. Researchers at Washington State University and the University of Idaho have made a number of breakthroughs and proof of principle studies which now opens the door for technological applications.
The researchers have also developed nanosensor technology based on the functionalization of GaN nanowires. These nanowire-based electrical chemical sensors are constructed with mats of GaN nanowires. The researchers have shown that the functionalized GaN nanowire mats effectively sense a variety of gases. This demonstrates that sensors built on the platform of nanomaterials do not need to be highly complex. This translates into low production costs, which are necessary to the realization of nanomaterial-based chemical sensors. The fact that these chemical sensors are electrical, as opposed to optical (typical of nanomaterials sensors) they can more readily be incorporated into existing technologies, such as gas sensors in automobiles.
Applications & Advantages
- Electrochemical sensing
- Adaptable to different geometrys
- Robust method for production
- Simple
IP Status
The technology is protected by a PCT application and is available for exclusive worldwide licensing.
For more information about this technology please contact WSURF:
1610 NE Eastgate Blvd, Suite 650
Pullman, WA 99164
Phone: (509) 335-5526
Fax: (509) 335-7237
wsurf@wsu.edu
