MOF thin film sensor materials for selective acrylamide detection

Overview

This solution focuses on the design and fabrication of metal-organic framework (MOF) thin films that selectively detect acrylamide in water at low concentrations. Acrylamide is a known contaminant of concern in food and water systems, and reliable, sensitive detection methods are needed. The approach exploits the tunable nanoconfined pore environments of MOFs to selectively capture acrylamide molecules. Upon capture, host-guest interactions modify the optical properties of the MOF, producing a measurable luminescent or absorption response that can be correlated to acrylamide concentration. The result is a functional, optically-responsive sensing surface suitable for water-quality monitoring and food-safety applications.

Technical specifications

• Selective capture: MOFs are rationally designed with functional groups tailored to interact preferentially with acrylamide, enabling selectivity over other ions and molecules commonly found in water.
• Optical transduction: Capture of acrylamide within the MOF pores changes the material's luminescent or absorption properties, providing a quantifiable optical signal.
• Thin film fabrication: MOF nanoparticles are deposited on surfaces using inkjet printing and doctor blade techniques to produce uniform, functional thin films.
• Target sensitivity: Designed to detect acrylamide at concentrations below 0.5 ppb.
• Response time: Optical response is expected within seconds of contact with the analyte.
• Durability: The films are intended to be non-degradable and water-tolerant for use in aqueous environments.
• Material form: MOFs are synthesized as nanoparticles before being integrated into thin film constructs, moving beyond traditional shapeless powders toward practically viable sensor surfaces.

Technology readiness level

The underlying science of rationally designing MOFs for selective analyte capture and host-guest interaction tuning is well-documented, and the research group has established expertise in MOF synthesis and shaping. MOF deposition on surfaces, including thin film fabrication, has expanded significantly in recent years, providing a strong technical foundation. The current stage involves synthesizing MOF nanoparticles and integrating them onto surfaces via inkjet printing and doctor blade techniques, with ongoing validation of selectivity, sensitivity, and optical response. Future work will focus on demonstrating reliable quantification of acrylamide in water using the optical response of the thin films. The technology is at an early-to-mid research and development stage, moving from laboratory synthesis toward functional sensor surface prototypes.