Compact Interferometric Sensors for Simultaneous Detection of Multiple VOCs

In this work we experimentally demonstrate a 2-sensor array based on fused silica capillary interferometers (FSCIs) functionalized with Polyaniline Hydrochloride (PAH)/SiO 2 films for simultaneous measurement of two volatile alcohols concentrations in an aqueous solution. The sensing mechanism relies on monitoring spectral shifts in the sensors’ transmission spectra due to changes in the effective refractive index (RI) of the functionalized layers caused by the adsorption of the volatile alcohol molecules. The individual concentrations in the mixture are determined with the help of inverse matrix method. This work is a preliminary investigation towards the development of a novel method for assessment of quality of alcoholic beverages in real time using a sensor array.