Unambiguous detection of nitrated explosive vapours by fluorescence quenching of dendrimer films

• DOI: 10.1038/ncomms9240
• Publication Date: 2015-09-15T09:18:26Z
• Authors: Yan Geng; Mohammad A. Ali; Andrew J. Clulow; Shengqiang Fan; Paul L. Burn; Ian R. Gentle; Paul Meredith; Paul E. Shaw
• Keywords: Vapours; Quartz Crystal Microbalance; Naked eye

Abstract Unambiguous and selective standoff (non-contact) infield detection of nitro-containing explosives taggants is an important goal but difficult to achieve with standard analytical techniques. Oxidative fluorescence quenching emerging as a high sensitivity method for detecting such materials prone false positives—everyday items perfumes elicit similar responses. Here we report thin films light-emitting dendrimers that detect vapours selectively—fluorescence not observed range common interferents. Using combination neutron reflectometry, quartz crystal microbalance photophysical measurements show the origin selectivity primarily electronic diffusion kinetics analyte or its distribution in film. The results are major advance development sensing nitro-based explosive vapours, deliver significant insights into physical processes govern efficacy.