Thesis

Development of novel intelligence links and pigments

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Awarding institution
  • University of Strathclyde
Date of award
  • 2012
Thesis identifier
  • T13332
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Abstract
  • This thesis details the development and characterisation of several novel optical indicators covering a range of different analytes including UV dose, relative humidity, hydrogen peroxide vapour, ammonia and volatile amines. Two UV dosimeters and the use of these novel dosimeters to measure solar UV exposure dose are discussed. The first dosimeter is based on a redox dye which is reduced by means of a UVB activated semiconductor photocatalyst. The second dosimeter is based on a redox dye capable of undergoing a UV induced reduction. The spectral characteristics of a typical UV dosimeter film and the mechanism through which the colour change occurs are detailed. Such indicators have potential for measuring solar radiation exposure and providing an early warning of erythema for most Caucasian skin (i.e. skin type II). A new relative-humidity sensitive ink based on methylene blue and urea is described which can utilise the deliquescent nature of urea. The notable features of this type of relative-humidity indicator are not only that it can be used exclusively for monitoring high (>85%) relative humidities, but it is quick to respond, highly reversible and has a good long-term stability. Intelligent pigments comprised of dye-coated inorganic substrates which have been incorporated into extrudable thermoplastics are described. These so-called intelligent plastics are characterised with respect to their response to gaseous ammonia and volatile amines and their suitability as a fish freshness indicator evaluated. A hydrogen peroxide vapour indicator that is highly coloured in the absence of hydrogen peroxide vapour but is rapidly bleached in the presence of hydrogen peroxide vapour is discussed. The proposed mechanism and the kinetics of the photobleaching are described. This particular indicator may be used to screen the headspace above liquids for hydrogen peroxide, which can be used for making in situ explosives, such as triacetone triperoxide.
Resource Type
DOI
Date Created
  • 2012
Former identifier
  • 967019

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