Sensors for Ammonia Detection in Poultry Houses
One of the research lines within the Applied Nanotechnology group at Saxion University of Applied Sciences (Enschede) focuses on the development of gas sensors. One of the options we are exploring involves modifying capacitive chips and photonic chips. By applying various polymers to these chips, we aim to make them sensitive to specific gases. These coated chips will eventually be used in the OBSeRVeD project, which focuses on the early detection of diseases in poultry houses.
By using various types of polymers (sensitive to different gases) on sensors/chips, we hope to develop an electronic nose (e-nose) selective for poultry diseases. The focus is particularly on detecting red mites. One of the gases we are very interested in is ammonia. Monitoring ammonia concentration provides valuable insights in the conditions of the poultry houses.
During this internship/graduation project, you will focus on coating and testing the chips with an focus on ammonia sensing.
- Which polymers would be suitable as a sensor coating for ammonia detection?
- You will investigate how to apply these coatings to our capacitive and photonic chips (e.g., via spin-coating, pipetting, or printing).
- To determine the sensitivity and selectivity of these coated chips for ammonia, you will use a gas calibration system (in collaboration with another student).
This gas calibration system can precisely generate a known concentration of ammonia (as a gas). Using the sensor signals during the testing phase, you can evaluate the sensitivity to ammonia. Your findings will be used by various project partners and will help us making a selections of suitable coated sensors for the e-nose!
In the OBSeRVeD project we have two open internship/graduation positions (also see ” Measuring Photonic Chips for E-Nose Development “). Based on your background and interests, we can discuss which assignment suits you best.
Project duration:
Spring 24/25 (February 2025 – July 2025)
Educational programs:
– Biology and Medical Lab (BML)
– Chemistry (CH)
Interested, please send your motivation letter and CV before the 24th of January 2025 to Mandy ten Bloemendal (m.tenbloemendal@saxion.nl) or Bert Swennenhuis (b.h.g.swennenhuis@saxion.nl)