Role of 2D Materials in Electronic Nose

Two-dimensional (2D) materials are a subgroup of nanomaterials characterized by having one dimension at the nanoscale (i.e., thickness < 100 nm). This nanoscale thickness enhances absorption and sensitivity, making 2D materials suitable for sensing applications. Due to their unique structural, chemical, and electrical properties, along with distinctive attributes such as high reaction sites within a low-density structure and significant surface-to-volume ratios, 2D materials have been extensively investigated for their potential in sensing ions, molecules, energy generation, storage, etc. This makes them strong contenders for gas sensing applications, including employment in electronic noses (e-noses). The efficacy of an e-nose is directly linked to the effectiveness of its constituent sensors. In this chapter, we have critically underscored the significance and functional capabilities of various 2D materials in the context of e-nose applications, such as graphene oxide (GO), MoS2, WS2, WSe2, MoSe2, among others. Nevertheless, there remains a need to innovate portable e-noses to unlock further advanced applications and elevate performance concerning sensitivity, selectivity, stability, or a combination of these attributes. To achieve this, it is crucial to amass substantial data from diverse 2D materials capable of reliably transducing interactions with molecules. This data can then be subjected to pattern recognition analysis, a facet comprehensively covered in this chapter. Additionally, the development and characterization of 2D materials tailored for e-nose applications are expounded upon.