Perfecting a Gaseous Air Sensor

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What for you is the most important result of the project so far?

We have succeeded with the realisation of an integrated gas sensor microsystem that includes a micro-pre-concentrator to boost the sensitivity and selectivity of the VOC measurement system. This novel concept was conceived during the project preparation and both the modelling and first experimental tests have validated the basic idea. Most important for us is that this integrated microsystem can be realised at low cost and is thus also a commercially viable solution allowing the selective measurement of target VOCs at ppb level even against a much higher background of interfering gases.

What are the main tasks/goals set for the remainder of the project?

We are currently in the process of integrating all the different technological aspects into a single demonstrator system that will be thoroughly tested under controlled lab conditions. Then, we are planning to perform field tests in at least two different application environments, one in schools or kindergartens, one in private homes.

What are the main challenges encountered in the project?

From a technological point of view, the main challenge is bringing all the different technologies and components together in a single system at low cost and ensuring a stable operation under real-life conditions – it works in the lab, but real environments are much more complex and diverse. This is especially challenging for the calibration that will probably need to be performed onsite – at least in part – to take the local background into account. The other major challenge is to convey the meaning behind the measurement values: most people cannot relate to ‘x ppb of this and y ppb of that’. While numerical measurement values are fine for controlling the ventilation, we also need a simple and intuitive user interface to provide information to the people. This, however, is a huge task which will require a dedicated effort – in a further project.

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