Scientists from the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), Bengaluru, have developed a new low-cost sensor that can help detect toxic sulphur dioxide (SO2) gas responsible for respiratory irritation, asthma attacks, and long-term lung damage, at extremely low concentrations, said the Ministry of Science and Technology on Friday. 

CeNS, Bengaluru is an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), under the Ministry.

SO2 is a toxic air pollutant commonly released from vehicles and industrial emissions, and even minute exposure can cause serious health issues and long-term lung damage. It is hard to detect before it has an adverse effect on health.