Hold on Tight: MOF-Based Irreversible Gas Sensors

Abstract

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are poised to improve modern-day gas sensors. Their unparalleled tunability and chemical selectivity across a wide span of chemical species have made them attractive for use in highly selective gas sensors. In this work, we delve into one of the biggest strengths of many MOFs, their irreversible chemisorption of gas molecules, and how this can be leveraged to create unique, low cost irreversible gas sensors (dosimeters) enabled by changes in MOF electrical properties. On the other hand, robust chemical bonding to the sensor substrate is often one of the biggest practical challenges facing MOF sensors for long-life applications. “Hold on tight”, be it to adsorbed molecules or the substrate itself, is a key factor in development of future MOF gas sensors. With continued advances, MOF materials are positioned to make both highly innovative and significantly impactful improvements to highly selective gas sensors used throughout society.