Quartz microbalances were produced which have polypyrrole as a conductive p
olymer electrode. The polymer layers were operated as both electrode and se
nsitive material to detect the concentration of toxic gases. Tests with NO2
demonstrated detection limits below the MAK values at room temperature. It
was also investigated the response to some other noxious compounds and to
the total gas flux. The possible mechanisms associated with the sensor prop
erties are pointed out and discussed. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All ri
ghts reserved.