Effect of processing parameters on sensing of chem-bio agents on surfaces: contact angle-based interactions

Abstract

A variety of sensors utilize nanoengineered titanium oxide TiO₂ since it changes oxidation states due to high energy exposure. It has been proven to be a good sensor material for radiation sensors. It also provides changes in hydrophobicity on crystalline or glassy surfaces since it affects the contact angles when embodied matrix is treated on the surface. In addition, TiO₂ forms very thin film on most substrates and avoids surface corrosion. To increase the sensitivity of sensors one must avoid high contact angle when using materials such as TiO₂. In this paper, we propose to discuss the effect of matrix and processing on the interaction by measuring hydrophobic properties of the composites. Accordingly, polystyrene and poly methyl methacrylate filled with TiO₂ nanoparticles composites were used. The effect of water, cyclohexane, toluene, and tetrahydrofuron (THF) solvent were studied. It was observed that the mixing of copper oxide significantly alters the sensing capability since it affects the contact angle on the surface and, hence sensitivity.