Selective and self-validating breath-level detection of hydrogen sulfide in humid air by gold nanoparticle-functionalized nanotube arrays

We demonstrate the selective detection of hydrogen sulfide at breath concentration levels under humid airflow, using a self-validating 64-channel sensor array based on semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes (sc-SWCNTs). The reproducible sensor fabrication process is based on a multiplexed and controlled dielectrophoretic deposition of sc-SWCNTs. The sensing area is functionalized with gold nanoparticles to address the detection at room temperature by exploiting the affinity between gold and sulfur atoms of the gas. Sensing devices functionalized with an optimized distribution of nanoparticles show a sensitivity of 0.122%/part per billion (ppb) and a calculated limit of detection (LOD) of 3 ppb. Beyond the self-validation, our sensors show increased stability and higher response levels compared to some commercially available electrochemical sensors. The cross-sensitivity to breath gases NH3 and NO is addressed demonstrating the high selectivity to H2S. Finally, mathematical models of sensors' electrical characteristics and sensing responses are developed to enhance the differentiation capabilities of the platform to be used in breath analysis applications.

Automated summary

A 64-channel sensor array based on semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes demonstrates selective detection of hydrogen sulfide at breath concentration levels, with a sensitivity of 0.122%/ppb and a LOD of 3 ppb. The sensors show increased stability and higher response levels compared to some commercially available electrochemical sensors, with high selectivity to H2S. Mathematical models of sensors' electrical characteristics and sensing responses are developed to enhance the platform's differentiation capabilities in breath analysis applications.