Transparent nanocellulose paper-based biodegradable colorimetric nerve agent detectors

Transparent cellulose nanofiber (t-CNF) films were prepared by succinylation and an aqueous collision counter system treatment, and used for the colorimetric detection of diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP), a nerve agent mimic in the vapor phase. DCP receptor with an oxime residue was anchored on the surface of succinylated CNF films, resulting in the target probe (CNF-Azo films). CNF-Azo films exhibited selective detection behavior toward DCP in the vapor phase. The oxime groups of CNF-Azo film reacted with DCP upon exposure to DCP vapor, which was accompanied by a color change from yellow to purple. Significantly, the film's transparency was preserved throughout the detection process, allowing it to identify objects behind the film during DCP detection. This property could apply to any detection system in which the color change caused by detection does not interfere with the film's transparency. The CNF-based film sensor was biodegradable, allowing it to be disposable after use.