Porous silicon biosensor for rapid detection of water-borne contaminants

我们最近证明了多孔硅的快速降解某些过渡金属配合物被称为仿生催化剂。催化降解形成了一种新的传感器原理的基础，其中多孔层作为基质，传感器和信号放大阶段。利用这一机制，我们将开发一种生物传感器，用于快速检测水资源中的污染物（毒素等）。目前的水库水处理是反应性的，而不是预防性的，因为目前的分析速度很慢。我们的生物传感器可以变成一个现场工具包，以改善水质管理和防止蓄意破坏供水的行为。

We have recently demonstrated the rapid degradation of porous silicon by certain transition metal complexes known as biomimetic catalysts. The catalysed degradation forms the basis of a new sensor principle where the porous layer serves as matrix, transducer and signal amplification stage. Using this mechanism, we will develop a biosensor for the rapid detection of contaminants (toxins etc.) in water resources. Reservoir water treatment today is reactive rather than preventive because current analysis is slow. Our biosensor can be turned into a field kit to improve water quality management and prevent acts of deliberate sabotage to the water supply.