Smart Sensors based on OTFT Technology for Heavy Metal Detection in Water and Soil in rural India

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"Environmental pollution by heavy metals is a major health concern over the world. A 2017 study by the WHO showed that 239 million people across 21 states in India drink water that contains unacceptably high levels of arsenic. In developing countries, where rapid urbanisation and industrialisation is occurring, heavy metal pollution represents a significant threat to health and well-being. This particularly affects rural communities in India where groundwater is their main source of potable water.Current methods used to detect heavy metal contamination require large pieces of expensive equipment and trained research staff to carry out the measurements. This is not feasible given the low socioeconomic status of the worst affected communities in India. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the potential application of NeuDrive's organic thin film transistor (OTFT) technology as an electrical sensor for on-site detection of heavy metals in soil, water and plant products in India.This Project NeuDrive Ltd and Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, India to become more competitive by developing research-based alliances which has the potential to foster new bilateral R&D collaboration. NeuDrive Ltd would gain access to a large global market for their sensor devices. On successful completion of the project NeuDrive's sensors will be a potentially a part of continuous monitoring of heavy metals contaminants and will help public and policy makers to adapt sustainable growth for the health and well-being of general population especially rural.The project addresses following SDG goalsGoal 9\. Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation-by involving Indian Institute for Toxicology Research as consultant to understand the problem of heavy metal contamination in Indian soil food and water. It will provide the partner country with new technology to test and implement creating jobs and as well as looking after the well being. The outcomes of monitoring heavy metals levels in ecosystem will drive the demand for sustainable industrialization.Goal 6-Clean water and sanitation-This project will focus on testing the heavy metal contaminants in water in Indian rivers an underground water which are mostly used by the general population in rural India.Goal 12\. Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns-Developing countries have undergone massive industrialization which also has created heavy metal pollutants in land and water which then enters the food chain. It is important to manage development with sustainable production methods manufacturing products."