Electrochemical Trace Detection and Pattern Recognition

Abstract

Today electrochemical sensors are widely used for personal security, environmental and process control and for medical applications (e.g. diabetes). The major advantages of electrochemical sensors are their high sensitivity, easy handling and low price compared to other sensors. Most of the electrochemical sensors are based on the amperometric method. For some years cyclic voltammetry has been used for the detection of explosives. In comparison to the amperometric method, systems based on cyclic voltammetry deliver qualitative information beside quantitative information [1]. Experimental results will be presented which show that TNT vapour concentrations down to approx. 30 ppt could be detected with our experimental setup. Moreover cyclic voltammetry could easily be used for pattern recognition like an electronic tongue. First preliminary results will be shown which underline the possibilities of cyclic voltammetry for pattern recognition.