Enhanced CO₂ Detection Using Potentiometric Sensors Based on PIM‐1/DBU Imidazolate Membranes

A novel potentiometric sensor for carbon dioxide (CO2) detection utilizing a composite membrane of Polymer of Intrinsic Microporosity (PIM-1) and 18-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene imidazolate (DBU-imidazolate) is presented. The high surface area and gas permeability of PIM-1, combined with the chemical affinity and ion-exchange properties of DBU-imidazolate, contribute to enhanced CO2 sensitivity and selectivity. The research objectives included the synthesis of PIM-1 and DBU-imidazolate, the preparation of composite membranes, and the evaluation of their performance as CO2 sensors. Solvent casting and impregnation methods are employed to prepare the membranes, which are characterized using Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). CO₂ absorption tests and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) are conducted to assess the sensors' performance. The PIM-1/DBU-imidazolate membrane exhibited high efficiency in CO₂ capture and release. Open circuit voltage (OCV) measurements are performed under varying concentrations of CO2 exposure and cycles of adsorption/desorption. Results show that the membrane achieves steady state faster at higher CO2 concentrations, with a logarithmic relationship between CO2 concentration and voltage variation, indicating potential for CO2 detection in human environments. These results confirm the sensor's ability to detect varying CO2 concentrations, highlighting its potential for reliable and efficient CO2 monitoring in environmental and industrial applications.