Application of Metal Organic Framework crystals for sensing of volatile organic Gases

We are reporting the development of a new sensor for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) using Metal Organic Framework (MOF) crystals. The sensitive nano-layer was deposited through an altered electrospraying system onto the surface of quartz resonators to form a uniform thin film. This method of electrospraying is compared to drop-casting which has been commonly used for creation of MOF thin films. It is demonstrated that our electrospraying technique resulted in maintaining a significantly higher quality factor, and hence, improving the sensor resolution and stability. The experimental set-up is presented and the response of the system to the vapours of three ubiquitous solvents, i.e., acetone, tetrahydro furan (THF), and Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) is described. The response of the electrosprayed film to different concentrations of VOCs is also investigated. The minimum detectable concentrations of these organic vapors are as well.