Sensor Using Liquid Crystal for Organophosphate Warfare Agent's Detection

In this letter, we present better understanding and improvements for a neurotoxic gas sensor using liquid crystal (LC) anchoring transition. A theoretical model has been established and checked with dimethyl methylphosphonate gas at concentrations as low as 1 ppm. The experimental results are consistent with the state of the art. A new fabrication technique using jet printing that allows one to increase the transduction dynamic is discussed. Chitosan material has been tested as a functionalization method to increase the lifetime of the transducer.