Volatile organic compounds or V-O-Cs are harmful chemicals that are can be found in the air and soil, and prolonged exposure to them are known to cause cancer.<br />However, in a potential breakthrough,... local researchers have developed a sensor that can easily and quickly detect the substances on the spot.<br />Park Se-young reports. <br /> The typical smell of paint or gasoline comes from Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs.<br />Aside from the smell, the substances form ozone and fine-dust particles, and are known to cause neurological disorders.<br />Prolonged exposure to even a small amount poses health risks, …but analysing VOCs requires large and expensive equipment.<br />Now, Korean researchers have developed a sensor that can quickly detect the substances and change color.<br />The sensor was made by combining photonic crystal particles with silicon that expands in contact with VOCs, and does not require power.<br />To increase detection speed, the researchers applied the "easy cut" technology in coffee mix packaging.<br /><br /> "To have fast detection speed, we developed a technology that removes unnecessary elements. The chip is directly exposed to harmful substances so it can change color quickly.<br /><br /> When the researchers pour ethanol, a VOC, onto the sensor, it takes just two seconds to change color.<br />This is 3000 times the speed of existing sensors.<br />The sensor was also able to quickly detect gases like benzene and toluene on the spot.<br /><br /> "Since the readings are displayed as traffic light colors instead of numbers, people can easily sense the danger. It's intuitive, easy to use and doesn't need power."<br /><br /> The researchers are now working on increasing the sensor's sensitivity so it only detects certain substances.<br />Park Se-young, Arirang News. <br />
