Tiny Sensors for Detecting "Forever Chemicals" in Water
Researchers at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering and Argonne National Laboratory have developed a novel method to detect miniscule levels of PFAS in water.
These "forever chemicals" are notoriously difficult to detect and linger in water, blood, and the environment, with some being toxic to humans.
Existing methods to measure levels of these contaminants can take weeks, and require state-of-the-art equipment and expertise.
The new method uses unique probes to quantify levels of PFAS and can measure these contaminants in just minutes, according to Junhong Chen, Crown Family Professor at the UChicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering.
A portable, handheld device is being developed to share this method, which can detect different PFAS chemicals, including those now regulated by the E.P.A.
Author's summary: New sensors detect "forever chemicals" in water quickly.