Researchers at the Central University of Rajasthan (CURAJ), Jaipur, developed a low-cost sensor to detect minute amounts of toxic lead (Pb²⁺) ions in drinking water

Researchers at the Central University of Rajasthan (CURAJ), Jaipur, developed a low-cost sensor to detect minute amounts of toxic lead (Pb²⁺) ions in drinking water

¨     Researchers at the Central University of Rajasthan (CURAJ), Jaipur, developed a low-cost sensor to detect minute amounts of toxic lead (Pb²⁺) ions in drinking water.

¨     The sensor can test water directly without the use of additional chemicals, buffers, or reagents.

¨     It is designed to be low-cost, user-friendly, and suitable for practical use.

¨     Lead is a toxic heavy metal that can enter drinking water through pipes, fittings, and plumbing materials.

¨     Lead contamination is often invisible because it does not change the colour of water.

¨     The accumulation of lead in the human body can damage the nervous system.

¨     Children are especially vulnerable, as lead exposure can interfere with brain development.

¨     The project was led by Pankaj Gupta, Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry, CURAJ.

¨     The research was carried out in collaboration with the Finnish nanotechnology company CANATU.

¨     The sensor uses electrodes that were successfully tested in tap water and in the Ganges and Brahmaputra river waters.

¨     The sensor was tested across a temperature range of 5°C to 45°C.

¨  It is described as a stable, self-sustaining electrical testing device that is suitable for industrial-scale mass production.