Plasmonic nose: integrating the MOF-enabled molecular preconcentration effect with a plasmonic array for recognition of molecular-level volatile organic compounds

Timely detection of toxic vapor is vital for safeguarding people's lives. Herein, we design a plasmonic nose based on a zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF)-encapsulated Ag nanocube array for ultratrace recognition of VOC vapor. The plasmonic nose enables in situ adsorption kinetics and recognition of various VOCs at ppm levels, eliminating false positives. Our approach provides a paradigm shift to next-generation, effective and specific gas sensors.