Microcantilevers as a sensitive platform for detection of volatile substances and explosives

Microcantilevers are versatile platform for sensing applications. The interaction of APTES coated microcantilevers with different volatile substances and TNT is studied. While the interaction of the studied volatiles with APTES is labile, the interaction of TNT with APTES is strong giving rise to high sensitivity and selectivity. Moreover, the experiments done with TNT are at air atmosphere, showing the strong ability of detection at harsh conditions. These results serve as a corner stone in the development of a small, reliable sensor for explosives.