The influence of gaseous chlorine on monolayers of metal-free meso-tet
ra(4-amino sulfonyl)phenylporphyrin is discussed. These films exhibit
characteristic intense optical absorption bands in the region 400-700
nm. Upon exposure to chlorine vapour in the concentration range 0.1-10
ppm, the Soret and Q-bands decrease in intensity and new bands at sim
ilar to 455 nm and similar to 660 nm appear, The rate of response has
been measured as a function of deposition surface pressure and gas con
centration. Repeated dosing experiments have shown that reversible and
reproducible sensing action occurs provided that a threshold concentr
ation is not exceeded. The recovery of the original optical spectrum c
an be accelerated with moderate heat treatment (60 degrees C for 10 mi
n). Ageing experiments have shown that the basic response of the monol
ayer is not effected over a time period of at least 5 months. (C) 1998
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