Photoelectret media for atmospheric nanosensors

Atmospheric nanosensors made of electroceramic materials show considerable promise for detection of atmospheric pollutant gases such as nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide/dioxide and hydrocarbons. Photonic electret media can also help in concentration of solar energy and produce higher efficiency solar cells. This paper provides an overview of developments in advanced electroceramic materials showing photo-induced polarization. During 1970s and 1980s studies on photoelectret properties of organic materials and silicon based thin films were carried out. Recent investigations of photoelectret effect in nanomaterials and their proposed applications as high efficiency solar energy producers and in sensing environment pollutants are discussed.