Detection of Organophosphorus (DMMP) Vapour Using Phthalocyanine-palladium Bilayer Structures

We report the use of phthalocyanine-palladium thin film bilayer structures as a sensor for chemical nerve agents. The electrical response behavior at room temperature of metal-free phthalocyanine-palladium and cobalt phthalocyanine-palladium structures, to nerve agent simulant gas, dimethyl-methylphosphonate (DMMP) was investigated. Acetone, methanol, ethanol, iso-propanol and water vapour were used as interferent vapours. Moreover, topography of samples surface was examined by atomic force microscope. Results were repeatable, showing that these materials are sensitive and selective for DMMP vapours at ppb concentrations. However, metal-free phthalocyanine-palladium structure is not selective in presence of acetone vapours.