Sensor element for indoor formaldehyde measurement

Abstract

We have developed a passive sensor element for detecting formaldehyde. It works by using the chemical reaction between formaldehyde and both β-diketone and ammonium ions on a porous glass surface. Lutidine derivative (yellow dye) is formed as a reaction product, and the absorbance at around 410 nm increases. The formaldehyde concentration is calculated from the change in absorbance of the sample after exposure. Indoor formaldehyde concentrations in the Kanto area of Japan have been determined. Using this sensor element, we have successfully detected ppb levels of formaldehyde.