Low-Cost Sensor to Detect Toxic Sulfur Dioxide | 07 Jul 2025

Source: PIB 

Scientists at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), Bengaluru, have developed a low-cost, highly sensitive sensor capable of detecting sulfur dioxide (SO₂) at extremely low concentrations. 

• Scientists fabricated a sensor combining nickel oxide (NiO) and neodymium nickelate (NdNiO₃). NiO acts as a gas receptor, and NdNiO₃ functions as a transducer, transmitting detection signals. 
  • It can detect SO₂ concentrations as low as 320 Parts per billion (ppb), surpassing many commercial sensors. 
  • The sensor offers real-time SO₂ detection with a user-friendly threshold alert system (green: safe, yellow: warning), making it ideal for public health use in industrial and urban spaces. 
• Sulfur dioxide (SO₂): It is a colorless, water-soluble toxic gas primarily emitted from vehicles and industrial activities. Even minute exposure can cause respiratory issues, including asthma attacks and long-term lung damage.