A high sensitivity broad spectrum optical early warning system for chemical toxic agents in water
Lead Research Organisation:
University of East Anglia
Department Name: Chemistry
Abstract
The collaborative project between Queen Mary, University of London andUniversity of East Anglia aims to design and engineer a low cost, portable,broad spectrum and highly sensitive integrated optical biosensor to be employedin rapid response warning systems for threats to water security. The solutionwill be based upon a multidisciplinary approach combining expertise in thesynthesis of novel tailor-made macrocyclic compounds (reporter materials),formulation of lipid bilayer membranes within a robust self-assembled organicfilm, high sensitive optical registration of surface/analyte interaction andall optical sensor interrogation methods. Fundamental investigations intochemical and engineering sciences will be targeted to meet the end users'specifications and the original scientific and engineering knowledge in thesensor technology will form the basis of a further technology transferprogramme into developing a marketable product by industrial collaborators. Itis important that any developed sensor is shown to be robust and fit forpurpose and instant feedback is essential for security alert. Minimalmaintenance requirements are to be achieved for commercially viable replacementof current practices. The detection limit should also be three orders ofmagnitude better than the ppm range capability of existing technologies.A common case for support is being submitted by QMUL and UEA.
Publications
Cammidge A
(2009)
Phthalocyanines bearing bulky cycloalkylmethyl substituents on non-peripheral sites
in Tetrahedron Letters
Chaure N
(2010)
Solution processable lutetium phthalocyanine organic field-effect transistors
in Organic Electronics
Zhao Z
(2009)
Towards black chromophores: mu-oxo linked phthalocyanine-porphyrin dyads and phthalocyanine-subphthalocyanine dyad and triad arrays.
in Chemical communications (Cambridge, England)
Description | The collaborative project between Queen Mary, University of London and University of East Anglia aimed to design and engineer a low cost, portable, broad spectrum and highly sensitive integrated optical biosensor to be employed in rapid response warning systems for threats to water security. In the project new molecular systems (phthalocyanine assemblies) were designed and synthesised suitable for controlled thin-film formulation. Sensor behaviour was monitored, along with fundamental molecular electronic behaviour. |
Exploitation Route | Again, the chemistry developed feeds directly into diverse programs. In particular it has led to alternative sensor designs, but also has potential to form the design framework for high-value components in organic electronics devices. This work led to materials and design strategies that are more widely applicable - most notably in light-harvesting systems and molecular electronics |
Sectors | Chemicals,Electronics,Environment,Security and Diplomacy |
Description | Provided groundwork for materials development for thin-film formulation of FET-type devices. |
First Year Of Impact | 2010 |
Description | ALcontrol Laboratories |
Organisation | ALcontrol Laboratories |
Country | United Kingdom |
Sector | Private |
Start Year | 2007 |
Description | T Q Environmental Plc |
Organisation | T Q Environmental Plc |
Country | United Kingdom |
Sector | Private |
Start Year | 2007 |