Evaluation of an innovative proposal for the integration of chemical sensors with SPME fibers on UAVs, for forensic, military, and civil applications

Abstract This work proposes the innovative integration of chemical sensors, specifically photoionization detectors (PID) and metal-oxide (MOX) sensors, with solid-phase microextraction (SPME) fibers on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This combination, proposed for the first time, enables rapid detection, sampling, and identification of volatile compounds via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). PID and MOX sensors provide real-time data on a wide range of compounds, while SPME fibers enhance sensitivity and allow post-flight analysis of absorbed substances. The system detects chemical warfare agents (CWAs), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and toxic industrial chemicals (TICs), supporting remote and early-stage event detection. A low-cost laboratory setup was developed to test sensors and SPME under controlled conditions, optimizing configurations and titration curves prior to UAV deployment. This work represents a significant advancement in environmental monitoring and emergency response, offering safe, efficient, and versatile detection capabilities.