Selective nanosensor array microsystem for exhaled breath analysis

This work describes a novel concept of a three-nanosensor array microsystem that may serve as a handheld breath analyzer for disease diagnosis. The specification and performance of a simple metal oxide nanosensor operating between three distinct temperatures are discussed, focusing on the need for a non-invasive blood cholesterol monitor. Interfacing the sensor array to an integrated circuit for electrical readout and temperature control provides for a complete microsystem capable to capturing a single exhaled breath and analyzing it with respect to its relative content of isoprene, carbon dioxide, and ammonia gas. This inexpensive sensor technology may be used as a personalized medical diagnostics in the near future.