Modified cyclodextrines as mass-sensitive coatings for solvent vapour detection

Abstract Advances in robustness, selectivity and sensitivity in organic solvent vapour detection can be achieved by the application of β-cyclodextrines as coatings for mass sensitive chemical sensors. Linking the cyclodextrines with e.g. diiodooctane combines the molecular recognition capabilities of host-guest chemistry with the high stability of polymeric layers. Special increase in selectivity is achieved with anhydro cyclodextrines, since their flattened conus is adapted to benzene derivatives as can also be shown by computer modelling. Furthermore methylation elongates the cavity, guaranteeing an optimised engulfing of the analytes. In this way even a differentiation between p- and m-xylene vapours and a QMB detection limit of some μL/L is possible.