New high-performance gas sensor can monitor low level nitrogen oxides pollution
(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2051321 )
| Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology |
| Context |
| ● Researchers have developed a groundbreaking gas sensor using mixed spinel zinc ferrite (ZnFe2O4) nanostructures, capable of detecting nitrogen oxides (NOx) at ultra-low concentrations (ppb levels) and room temperature.
● This advancement addresses key challenges in gas sensing, offering a more precise and affordable solution for air quality monitoring. |
About New Invention:
- Scientists at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) developed a new gas sensor using zinc ferrite (ZnFe2O4) nanostructures.
- This sensor can detect nitrogen oxides (NOx) at very low concentrations (parts-per-billion) even at room temperature.
- It addresses the limitations of existing gas sensors, which often need high temperatures to work and lack selectivity.
- The new sensor is highly sensitive, selective, and responds quickly, with excellent durability for over 3 months.
- It was tested on vehicle exhaust samples, successfully detecting trace NOx levels.
- The sensor’s low energy demand reduces operating costs, making it more affordable for monitoring air pollution.
- The findings were supported by computational studies, confirming the improved ability to detect NOx using this novel nanostructure.
| Nitrogen Oxides Pollution |
| Causes of Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Pollution:
● Emissions from vehicles (cars, trucks, buses) due to fuel combustion. ● Industrial processes, especially from power plants and factories burning fossil fuels. ● Agricultural activities, including the use of fertilisers and burning of biomass. ● Emissions from residential heating systems and stoves. ● Natural sources like wildfires and lightning strikes, though in smaller amounts. Impact of NOx Pollution: ● Contributes to the formation of ground-level ozone (smog), which affects respiratory health. ● Leads to acid rain, damaging crops, forests, and aquatic ecosystems. ● Causes respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, and decreased lung function. ● Reacts in the atmosphere to form fine particulate matter, worsening air quality. ● NOx pollution accelerates climate change by contributing to greenhouse gas formation. ● Harms infrastructure by corroding buildings, monuments, and materials due to acidic reactions. |
| PYQ:
Q. Which of the following add/adds nitrogen to the soil? (2013) 1. Excretion of urea by animals 2. Burning of coal by man 3. Death of vegetation Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 only Ans: Option C |
| Practice Question: Discuss the causes and environmental impacts of nitrogen oxides (NOx) pollution, and suggest measures to mitigate its harmful effects. (150 Words /10 marks) |
