Polymer Nanofiber-Based Reversible Nano-Switch/Sensor Schottky Diode Device

Glenn's innovative nanoSSSD device includes a doped semiconducting substrate, an insulating layer deposited on the substrate, an electrode formed on the insulating layer, and at least one polymer nanofiber deposited on the electrode. The deposited nanofiber provides an electrical connection between the electrode and the substrate, serving as the electro-active element in the device. The nanofiber is generally composed of a customized polymer (e.g., polyaniline) that is extremely sensitive to the adsorption and desorption of a single gas molecule. As gas molecules are adsorbed and desorbed, the resistivity of the customized polymer also changes, providing its sensing capacity. When the nanoSSSD device senses a selected gaseous species, the switching portion of the device automatically actuates, sending a signal to the control component. This control component activates the output (warning) device. In addition to its ability to detect harmful gases (including ammonia, hydrogen, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide), Glenn's device can also feature conducting polymers that are sensitive to UV radiation. Glenn's nanoSSSD technology has great commercial potential, particularly in situations where frequent replacement of the switch/sensor is impractical.