Abstract
Researchers at the University of Central Florida have
developed an inexpensive, reliable sensor that can rapidly and simultaneously
detect traces of multiple heavy metals in water. With its unique biopolymer-metal
composite thin film, the device provides improved sensitivity for identifying toxins
in situ, including mercury, cadmium, arsenic, chromium,
thallium, lead and zinc.
As part of the technology development, the researchers also invented
a novel fabrication process to produce the new composite film. Manufacturers
can use the process to reduce costs significantly. With existing fabrication
methods, an electrode (microsensor) can cost hundreds of dollars. In contrast, the
UCF method provides an electrode with an estimated cost of less than $1. As an
example, the technology offers the capability to develop an instrument that
easily connects to a kitchen faucet to monitor heavy metal ions in drinking
water.
Technical Details
The invention comprises a sensing device and a method for
fabricating the device. A key aspect of the technology is a novel and simple
electrodeposition method in which a metal ion and a polysaccharide form an
integrated biopolymer-metal composite film. The process is more cost-effective
than photolithography or physical deposition. It produces an electrode suitable
for use aquatically to monitor the concentration of heavy metal ions or for in
situ analysis of leachate heavy metal ions in water. Examples of metal ions used
to make the composite film are iron (Fe), copper (Cu), or bismuth (Bi). Polysaccharide
examples include chitosan or chitin.
In one example application, the researchers created two biopolymer-metal
composite film-based sensors: one made of Bi-chitosan and another made of Fe-chitosan.
Using the sensors with square-wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV), the
researchers simultaneously analyzed concentrations of heavy metals in real
mining wastewater. They used the Bi-based composite film sensor to detect cadmium
(Cd2+) and lead (Pb2+), and the Fe-based composite to detect
arsenic (As3+). The detection
limits observed in parts per billion (ppb) were 0.5 of Cd, 1 of Pb, and 3.75 of
As.
Partnering Opportunity
The research team is looking for partners to develop the
technology further for commercialization.
Stage of Development
Prototype available.
Benefit
Affordable, sensitive, selectiveDrops the cost of an electrode to less than $1Solves the problem of Bi electrode material brittleness/detachment (industrial use issues)Market Application
Heavy metal ion detection in various water resources (city tap water and well water) and wastewater (industrial, municipal and mining)Home water detection
Brochure