Bionic Olfactory-Inspired Membrane For Dual H2s/Humidity Detection

To design a bionic olfactory-inspired sensor mimicking biological odor-processing mechanisms for real-time dual-mode H2S/humidity detection, addressing periodontitis diagnosis and H2S poisoning monitoring. The core of the system was comprised of an electrospun TPU membrane, modified with NH2-MIL-88B(Fe), which was designed to mimic the olfactory nerve responsible for transmitting signal molecules. The TPU membrane itself was intended to replicate the cerebral cortex, where the processing and interpretation of these signal molecules occur. A monolayer of Mxene, applied to the surface of the membrane, was used to simulate the olfactory epithelium, while Ag NPs further modified onto the Mxene surface served as olfactory receptors, facilitating the specific recognition and binding of signal molecules. The sensing function was validated through chemoresistive H2S gas sensing and capacitive humidity sensing tests, mechanism analysis, clinical breath samples evaluations. Drawing inspiration from the human olfactory system, the bioinspired MTTA membrane demonstrated exceptional dual-mode sensing capabilities, exhibiting high selectivity and sensitivity toward both H2S gas and humidity signals, along with rapid response/recovery kinetics and remarkable long-term stability. Signal decoupling was accomplished via distinct resistance and capacitance outputs, which effectively eliminated cross-interference in complex environments. This innovation enabled successful deployment in challenging scenarios— accurate quantification of H2S (a critical biomarker for periodontitis) within high-humidity exhaled breath, facilitating precise diagnostic applications. By bridging biological olfactory principles with material engineering, this work established a telemedicine-compatible platform for dual-parameter detection, advancing intelligent diagnostics through human-machine synergy.