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2.2.3.1.3 Solid-state sensors

Solid state sensors have at their core a conducting or semiconducting material, which can bind target molecules and record this as a change in electronic property (conductance, capacitance, resistance).  Materials that have been used include oxides of tin, indium, aluminium, zinc and many others, as well as composites of these materials[i].

Solid state sensors are primarily used to detect gases; for example, nitrous oxides, oxygen, carbon mono and dioxide.  Although being largely used for the monitoring of combustion processes (e.g. automotive) and for environmental pollution, they have potential applications in agriculture, where the levels of the above gases give good indication of the growth status of the plant being monitored.

Further information on solid-state sensors for gas detection can be found in the security technology sector reports.