The use of a cellulose detection film as a carrier for a colorimetric sensor to detect phosgene and allied compounds to be evaluated primarily visually is studied. For the case study, a benzimidazole-rhodamine dye and an acetyl cellulose film were selected. The detection complex was modified using cyclic ether 18-crown-6 to achieve more desirable analytic properties. The chromatic properties of detection film was verified using reflectance colorimetry in the visible light spectrum. The employed detection agent demonstrated high sensibility to phosgene vapours, but acid gases, acyl chlorides, base organic solvents, and in higher concentrations, even some organophosphorus substances interfered. The detection film application was adjusted to the in-situ preparation of simple detection devices (a spray or a marker) as well as to manufacture detection strips with beforehand excluded polymer film.
Keywords: Crown ether; acetyl cellulose; chromogenic chemosensor; phosgene; polymer film.