Prospects and challenges of sensor materials: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Sensor materials have become more important in several industries as they facilitate the development of advanced sensing technologies in the modern day. These materials, specifically engineered to transform physical, chemical, or biological stimuli into quantifiable signals, play a crucial role in gathering vital data for controlling, monitoring, and making informed decisions. It is essential to comprehend the obstacles and prospects linked to sensor materials, given the escalating demand for sensor systems that are both efficient and versatile. The sensing qualities of a material refer to its capacity to detect and quantify alterations in its surroundings. These properties encompass a range of approaches, including optical, chemical, piezoelectric, capacitive, and resistive interactions. Although these materials are utilized in various industries such as transportation, medicine, agriculture, industrial operations, and environmental monitoring, persistent issues are still related to improved reaction speed, selectivity, and sensitivity. Nevertheless, the outlook for sensor materials seems optimistic, as current research and advancements are anticipated to result in materials that exhibit enhanced performance, durability, and energy economy. Developing nanomaterials and sophisticated production processes facilitates the potential for creating highly selective and sensitive sensors with new functionalities. This advancement contributes to the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) and its applications in massive data collection, leading to enhanced automation and decision-making capabilities. This review article examines the recent advancements, applications, and research in sensor materials while also discussing the obstacles they encounter and the potential opportunities that enable them to significantly impact multiple industries and society.