Nanomaterial-Based Sensors For Environmental Monitoring: A Review

Abstract

Environmental monitoring has become a major focus for nanomaterial sensors due to their high sensitivity, selectivity, and flexibility in detecting pollutants and contaminants. These sensors exploit the distinctive characteristics of nanomaterials such as metal nanoparticles, carbon-based nanomaterials, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), quantum dots, and nanocomposites to improve sensing performance in air, water, soil, and biological systems. This paper examines the various nanomaterials used in sensors, their sensing mechanisms, and their applications in environmental monitoring with emphasis on real-time, portable, and low-cost sensors. It also includes challenges related to sensitivity, stability, scalability, and environmental compatibility, as well as recent developments and future prospects in nanomaterial-based sensor technologies. The potential of integrating nanomaterials with the Internet of Things (IoT) for smart, connected monitoring is also discussed.