Abstract: Provided are processes for the sensitive detection of the presence of, absence of, and optionally the identity of, one or more chemical agents. The processes use the binding of chemical agents to a metal organic framework or metal oxide/hydroxide electrically connected to a pair of electrodes to detect low levels of chemical in a sample. By exposing the surface of the metal organic framework or the surface of the metal oxide/hydroxide to the chemicals and then measuring changes in impedance magnitude and/or phase shift through electrical impedance spectroscopy, the presence of a chemical agent is readily detected.

Abstract: An infrared radiation emitting element is provided. A carbonized conducting filament is formed from an insulating substrate material. Passing current through the filament produces radiation in the infrared band. The radiation emitted is tuned by altering the physical or chemical characteristics of the filament. A substrate is optionally doped prior to filament formation. Alternatively, or in addition, a post-filament formation doping process is used. The light-emitting element is a durable, low power IR emitter that is operable as a marker.