High Performance, Cost Effective, Planar Molecularly Controlled Semiconductor Resistor (MOCSER) Gas Sensors on InAs and InN

We plan to implement a planar Molecularly Controlled Semiconductor Resistor (MOCSER) gas sensor on both InAs and InN platforms for the ppt-ppm detection of NOx and H2O. Kyma Technologies and Duke University will leverage Duke"s leading MOCSER based NOx sensor technology which uses surface functionalization of InAs with hemin (chloroprotoporphyrin IX iron(III)) to create a strong affinity for NOx. We will extend its range from ppb to ppt by applying hemin functionalization to InN grown on Kyma AlN and GaN templates, and will additionally characterize its response to H2O over the ppt to ppm range. These sensors have true low cost COTS potential and fulfill several critical DOD needs, in particular that of extending the service life of nitrate ester-based propellants and explosives which are used in a wide range of rockets and munitions. Use of the MOCSER will allow in-situ monitoring in rockets and munitions, enabling individualized end of service life determination, saving millions of $USD in suboptimal maintenance costs. Additional applications include NOx sensing for combustion engine process optimization for increased fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, as well as individualized monitors that can be carried by the warfighter into a wide range of hostile environments.