Abstract: The present invention provides devices and articles of manufacture comprising a low-voltage operable, highly sensitive, and selectively responsive polymer for the detection of nitroaromatic compounds, including explosives. Resistive devices were fabricated by simple spin-coating on flexible and transparent substrates as well as silicon substrates, and were stable under ambient temperature and oxygen levels before exposure to the nitroaromatics. After exposure to 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), the devices showed increased conductance, even with pg quantities of TNT, accompanied by a confirming color change from colorless to deep red. The relative conductance increase per unit exposure is the highest yet reported for TNT. Aromatic anion salts, on the other hand, did not induce any electronic responses. Methods of making the articles and devices, and their use are also provided.

Abstract: An x-ray detector includes a first electrode, a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode, an organic p-type semiconducting layer disposed between the first and second electrodes, and an organic n-type semiconducting layer disposed between the first and second electrodes and in contact with the organic p-type semiconducting layer to form a pn-junction layer therebetween. At least one of the organic p-type semiconducting layer or the organic n-type semiconducting layer includes an x-ray absorbing material blended therein.

Abstract: An electro-chemical sensor includes a first electrode, a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode, and a semiconductor channel in electrical contact with the first and second electrodes. The semiconductor channel includes a trapping material. The trapping material reduces an ability of the semiconductor channel to conduct a current of charge carriers by trapping at least some of the charge carriers to localized regions within the semiconductor channel. The semiconductor channel includes at least a portion configured to be exposed to an analyte to be detected, and the trapping material, when exposed to the analyte, interacts with the analyte so as to at least partially restore the ability of the semiconductor channel to conduct the current of charge carriers.