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Real-Time Array Sensor System for Field Monitoring of Metal Ions--IA, Inc., P.O. Box 1306, Ann Arbor, MI  48106-1306; 734-995-9338

Mr. Richard H. Smith, Ph. D., Principal Investigator

Mr. James G. Downward, Ph.D, Business Official

DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-00ER83019

Amount:  $100,000

 

Contamination of soils, sediments and groundwater at DOE sites presents significant monitoring and remediation challenges.  The technology developed under this research program will be used for field deployment in monitoring important contaminants, and also can be used in concert with remediation efforts.  This technology provides a novel sensor array that can give real-time levels of metals at DOE sites and other areas of environmental concern.  The technology developed under this research program will develop a novel ion sensor array, based on a new understanding of methods to increase sensor sensitivity.  In the Phase II prototype, the array will be integrated with microfluidics, microprocessors, and microvolume ion chromatography to allow unattended,  remote analysis at selected DOE sites.  Initial Phase I activities will create ion selective electrodes for two or more contaminants of concern (uranium, strontium, thorium, lead, or mercury) and optimize them for maximal sensitivity to each ion.  Additionally, IA will determine selectivity by flow injection analysis and test spiked samples of groundwater. 

 

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee:  Initiatives by DOE, EPA, DoD and other federal and state agencies, along with the concerns of private industry and private citizens, mitigate monitoring and remediation of hazardous contaminants.  The sensor technology will have commercial application in testing existing sites, monitoring remediation and testing industrial effluents.