Next-generation method for portable water analysis, offering advanced capabilities for detecting manganese amid interfering ions
Background
Accurate monitoring of water quality is crucial for safeguarding public health, ideally employing portable sensors capable of real-time and on-site analysis. Manganese (Mn2+) contamination in drinking water poses significant health risks; however, accurate portable sensing is challenging due to interference from other ions, notably iron (Fe2+). Current portable sensors struggle to accurately detect Mn2+ in the presence of high Fe2+ concentrations on-site and in real-time, leading to unreliable results and compromised safety assessments. Consequently, there is a pressing need for an advanced analytical solution capable of accurate Mn2+ detection even amidst complex matrices, ensuring comprehensive water quality assessment and effective contamination mitigation.
Technology Overview
This multiplex electrochemical method presents a solution for accurate manganese (Mn2+) detection in water, particularly in the presence of interfering ions such as iron (Fe2+). This approach leverages a multichannel potentiostat and chronoamperometry at multiple electrodes, each operating at different potentials, to generate unique 鈥渇ingerprint鈥 patterns for accurate water component analysis. This technology is not limited to Mn2+ detection only, but also potentially adaptable to other water contaminants.
TRL 3: Initial studies have demonstrated efficacy in accurately detecting Mn2+ in the presence of high Fe2+ concentrations.
Benefits
- Enhanced Accuracy: By leveraging multiplex electrode configuration and pattern recognition algorithms, the method shows accurate manganese (Mn2+) detection, even in the presence of interfering ions like iron (Fe2+). This ensures reliable and accurate assessment of water quality, mitigating risks to public health.
- Improved Sensitivity: Compared to traditional electrochemical methods, the multiplex approach enhances sensitivity to trace levels of Mn2+ for reliable detection at lower concentrations.
- Rapid Analysis: A streamlined workflow and rapid detection capabilities can reduce turnaround time and improve operational efficiency. Real-time monitoring can facilitate prompt response to water quality fluctuations and potential contamination events.
- Adaptability: The method could be integrated into existing water quality monitoring systems, offering a cost-effective solution for routine analysis.
Applications
- Drinking Water Treatment: Implementation of the method in municipal water treatment facilities could provide rapid and accurate monitoring of manganese (Mn2+) levels, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and safeguarding public health.
- Environmental Monitoring: The technology may find applications in environmental monitoring programs, facilitating the assessment of Mn2+ contamination in surface water bodies, groundwater sources, and industrial effluents.
- Industrial Process Control: Industries reliant on water resources, such as mining, metal processing, and manufacturing, may benefit from the method's ability to monitor Mn2+ levels in process water and wastewater streams.
- Agricultural Water Management: In agricultural settings, the method could aid in monitoring Mn2+ levels in irrigation water, preventing excessive accumulation in soils and mitigating potential adverse effects on crop growth and yield.
- Emergency Response and Disaster Management: During environmental emergencies, the method could be used for rapid assessment of water quality impacts and contamination levels.
Opportunity
Queens university are seeking opportunities for collaboration to further advance development. Key areas of opportunity include research partnerships, technology licensing and transfer, and other strategic partnerships. There is an opportunity to forge alliances with water utilities, environmental agencies, and technology providers to develop and pilot test the technology, demonstrate its efficacy, and foster adoption.
Patents
- US18/619,477
- CA3,233,686
IP Status
Patent application submitted
Seeking
- Commercial partner
- Development partner
- Licensing
Posted
June 11, 2024