Metal Oxide Semiconductor Sensors: Unrealized or Unrealizable Potential?
Having worked at the forefront of chemical sensing at University of Cambridge, and with a range of companies including Capteur Sensors, City Technology, MicroChemical Systems and Honeywell, our expertise is extensive and unmatched in
metal oxide semiconducting sensors
but we can also offer expert advice on sensing technologies related to
solid-state electrochemical
aqueous electrochemical
Through our network of associates we can provide a balanced portfolio, encompassing other established or emerging technologies such as
NDIR, UV, GasFET, Polymer, Pellister and SAW technologies
Metal Oxide Semiconductor Sensors:
Unrealized or Unrealizable Potential?
The technology has been available for over 30 years but has disappointed in fulfilling its potential. With its unmatched attributes of low-cost, miniature size, large detection range and ease of manufacture, it has been steered towards large volume market opportunities. However to date, it has had only one high volume market success: Automotive Cabin Air Quality, while low-margin niche opportunities have accounted for the rest. With over 30 years of maturing, it should be capable of more than this!
One reason for this is that commercially available sensors employ SnO2 and to a lesser extent, WO3, as the gas-sensing material. While these n-type materials have advantages in terms of fabrication, ease of deposition and gas responsiveness, they are disadvantaged by issues such a drift, humidity interference and cross-sensitivity. Yet, suppliers still persist in using them. The disadvantages of n-type materials have given the technology a reputation for unreliability.
A thoroughbred horse needs a top jockey to win the derby.
It is no different here: matching the MOS sensor platform with a gas-sensitive material tailored for the specific application can meet the most demanding requirement. Our strong materials development expertise makes this a straightforward challenge for us. For example, we have proven that certain p-type or hybrid n-/p-type materials can address the shortcomings already listed and out-compete alternative costly technologies.
Having worked at the forefront of chemical sensing at University of Cambridge, and with a range of companies including Capteur Sensors, City Technology, MicroChemical Systems and Honeywell, our expertise is extensive and unmatched in
