Development of a microfluidic ion exchange preconcentration module for heavy metals sensing in water

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

This project develops a microfluidic preconcentration device that is critical to improve the sensitivity of heavymetal sensors which are used for monitoring the environment. Assessment of water quality at a remote settingrequires devices that are portable, inexpensive, user agnostic and accurate in measuring ions of interest. Wehave recently developed a sensing system that is compact, low cost and automates the detection of heavymetals in water. However, the sensitivity of this sensing system is an order of magnitude poorer than theminimum allowable limits of heavy metals in the environment. Therefore, there is a critical need topre-concentrate the environmental sample to meet the accuracy requirement. Among the various methods used,ion exchange is an effective method to preconcentrate in an autonomous manner. Our partner, Renix, is aleader in development of ion exchange systems for applications in environmental water treatment. They areinterested in developing a value added product that could use their expertise in ion exchange to assist with themonitoring and detection of heavy metals. Using our combined expertise in ion exchange as well as inminiaturization, we will develop a preconcentration module that will automate the concentration and release ofthe metal ions from environmental water samples. The preconcentration module will be tested in combinationwith the sensing system to completely automate the detection process and its performance will be assessed overextended duration of time. The outcome of this project will not only extend the product line of our partner, butalso provide a valuable tool that could potentially be used by them to optimize the performance of theirenvironmental water treatment systems. This project will also develop interdisciplinary skills in the studentsand the interaction with industrial partner will be an excellent training for the students.