Regeneration and Long-Term Stability of a Low-Power Eco-Friendly Temperature Sensor Based on a Hydrogel Nanocomposite

Autor: Giovanni Landi, Sergio Pagano, Veronica Granata, Guerino Avallone, Luca La Notte, Alessandro Lorenzo Palma, Paolo Sdringola, Giovanni Puglisi, Carlo Barone
Jazyk: angličtina
Rok vydání: 2024
Předmět:
Zdroj: Nanomaterials, Vol 14, Iss 3, p 283 (2024)
Druh dokumentu: article
ISSN: 2079-4991
DOI: 10.3390/nano14030283
Popis: A water-processable and low-cost nanocomposite material, based on gelatin and graphene, has been used to fabricate an environmentally friendly temperature sensor. Demonstrating a temperature-dependent open-circuit voltage between 260 and 310 K, the sensor effectively detects subzero ice formation. Notably, it maintains a constant temperature sensitivity of approximately −19 mV/K over two years, showcasing long-term stability. Experimental evidence demonstrates the efficient regeneration of aged sensors by injecting a few drops of water at a temperature higher than the gelation point of the hydrogel nanocomposite. The real-time monitoring of the electrical characteristics during the hydration reveals the initiation of the regeneration process at the gelation point (~306 K), resulting in a more conductive nanocomposite. These findings, together with a fast response and low power consumption in the range of microwatts, underscore the potential of the eco-friendly sensor for diverse practical applications in temperature monitoring and environmental sensing. Furthermore, the successful regeneration process significantly enhances its sustainability and reusability, making a valuable contribution to environmentally conscious technologies.
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