Development of a micro-analytical prototype for selective trace detection of orthonitrotoluene

A silicon micro-analytical platform consisting of a micro-preconcentrator based on a hydrophobic zeolite, coupled to a silicon spiral micro-column was built. A chemical gas sensor acted as a miniaturized gas detector. This system allowed selective detection of orthonitrotoluene (ONT), an explosive-related compound at the sub-ppm level (365 ppb) in the presence of toluene and moisture.