Colorimetric Polydiacetylene–Aerogel Detector for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Abstract

A new hybrid system comprising polydiacetylene (PDA), a chromatic conjugated polymer, embedded within aerogel pores has been constructed. The PDA-aerogel powder underwent dramatic color changes in the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), facilitated through infiltration of the gas molecules into the highly porous aerogel matrix and their interactions with the aerogel-embedded PDA units. The PDA-aerogel composite exhibited rapid color/fluorescence response and enhanced signals upon exposure to low VOC concentrations. Encapsulation of PDA derivatives displaying different headgroups within the aerogel produced distinct VOC-dependent color transformations, forming a PDA-aerogel "artificial nose".

Covalently Linked Perylene Diimide–Polydiacetylene Nanofibers Display Enhanced Stability and Photocurrent with Reversible FRET Phenomenon

“…We recently described a new strategy for fabrication of patterned conducting polymers and magnetic nanoparticles that takes advantage of the photopolymerization property of self‐assembled diacetylenes (DA). It is well known that topochemical polymerization of self‐assembled DAs leads to formation of polydiacetylene (PDA) . Because DAs are typically soluble in most organic solvents and PDAs are not, non‐UV‐irradiated parts of films created in this manner can be removed by utilizing a solvent development protocol.…”

Versatile Aerogels for Sensors

“…Due to the abundant functional groups, organic aerogels have also been used as gas sensors . Chen and co‐workers proposed a facile and cost‐effective approach to fabricate polymer/gold nanoparticle hybrid aerogels as a highly sensitive humidity sensor (Figure g).…”

Carbon Aerogels for Environmental Clean‐Up

“…Carbon aerogels have been recognized as potential adsorbents for VOC removal due to their superior features , . For example, Francisco et al prepared a carbon aerogel with gallic acid, resorcinol, and formaldehyde, which was further activated by CO 2 .…”

“…Another important application of carbon aerogels for VOC adsorption is their use as VOC sensors . The adsorption of trace amounts of gas molecules on the carbon aerogel surface causes significant charge transfer, resulting in a noticeable conductance change.…”