Research

Engineering Sciences

Title :

Portable sensors with cellphone interfacing for Copper Ion detection in water Using Aminated-Pectin Based Nanofibrous Membranes

Area of research :

Engineering Sciences

Focus area :

Water Treatment

Principal Investigator :

Dr. Berly Robert, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Timeline Start Year :

2024

Timeline End Year :

2026

Contact info :

Details

Executive Summary :

The study aims to revolutionize heavy metal ion detection in water by integrating nanofibers with mobile interfaces. The research focuses on detecting copper ions (Cu2+) in water, which pose potential health and ecosystem risks. Cu2+ is primarily found in plumbing systems and industrial discharges. The current technology lacks user-friendly solutions for evaluating heavy metals in water, often requiring complex equipment and methodologies. The project proposes a compact, portable device that can measure heavy metal levels through a smartphone app-based interface. The research uses lemon-derived pectin to bind metal ions, coating it onto a polymeric core, creating a distinct shell layer through coaxial electrospinning. This optimizes material interactions, providing structural stability and enhancing Cu2+ ion affinity. The method ensures precision in heavy metal detection and aligns with environmental sustainability and economic viability. The process involves adsorbing metal ions from water onto a nanofibrous membrane, triggering a chemiluminescent reaction when a luminol-H2O2 solution is introduced. The resulting signal output is integrated with an electronic display system, allowing for precise digital readouts for water quality indices.

Total Budget (INR):

Organizations involved