Functionalization of graphene-based gas sensors for agricultural applications

Ethylene (C2H2) and acetic acid (CH3COOH) gases play a crucial role in agricultural applications, particularly in fruit ripening and plant stress monitoring. Detecting these gases with high sensitivity and selectivity is essential for optimizing storage conditions, improving crop yield, and preventing post-harvest losses. However, conventional gas sensors often face challenges in distinguishing ethylene and acetic acid from other interfering gases, leading to poor selectivity and reduced reliability. Graphene, with its high surface area (2630 m2/g), excellent Carrier Mobility at RT (200000 cm2/V s), and strong adsorption properties, is a promising material for gas sensing. However, its inherent reactivity makes it highly sensitive to a wide range of gases, leading to cross-sensitivity issues. To enhance selectivity and improve sensor performance, functionalization of graphene is necessary.

In this project, we propose the use of spark ablation as a functionalization technique to decorate graphene with metal oxide nanoparticles (MO-NPs) in a controlled manner. Spark ablation offers a unique advantage by enabling precise control over the size, distribution, and density of nanoparticles, allowing for targeted modifications of the sensing layer. By optimizing these parameters, we aim to improve the sensitivity and selectivity of the graphene-based sensor specifically for ethylene and acetic acid detection. The successful development of this sensor will contribute to advancements in real-time agricultural monitoring, enabling early detection of fruit ripening stages, storage conditions, and plant metabolic processes.

Assignment

• Design of mask for the gas sensors using L-edit
• Fabricate the graphene-based gas sensors
• Decorate graphene with metal oxide nanoparticles by spark ablation
• Control and optimize nanoparticle size, density, and coverage to achieve high selectivity for ethylene and acetic acid
• Room Temperature measurements using Characterization techniques and gas-sensing measurements

Requirements

You are a passionate student looking for discoveries in 2D materials such as graphene that can be crucial for sensor development and optimization, especially for environmental and agricultural applications. You have a background in one of these fields as engineering, physics, or material science.

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Last modified: 2025-02-13