How Do Catalysts Improve Sensor Sensitivity and Selectivity?
Catalysts improve sensor sensitivity by increasing the rate of the chemical reaction between the pollutant and the sensor material. This increased reaction rate leads to a more significant change in the sensor's electrical resistance or other measurable properties, making it easier to detect low concentrations of pollutants. Selectivity is improved by choosing catalysts that preferentially react with specific pollutants, reducing cross-sensitivity to other substances.