Advances in volatile organic compounds detection: From fundamental research to real-world applications

Abstract

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) play a crucial role in affecting health, environmental integrity, and industrial operations, from air quality to medical diagnostics. The need for highly sensitive and selective detection of these compounds has spurred innovation in sensor technologies. This editorial introduces a special collection of articles in Applied Physics Reviews, exploring the latest advancements in VOC detection technologies. The featured works cover a range of innovations, including electrostatically formed nanowires, chiral liquid crystals, and graphene-based sensors enhanced by machine learning. Together, these articles highlight the dynamic progress in VOC detection, striving for improved sensitivity, selectivity, and real-world applicability. This special collection not only showcases pioneering research but also provides valuable insights into future trends and potential applications in the field.