Real-Time Array Sensor System for Field Monitoring of Metal Ions

60874 Contamination of soils, sediments and groundwater at DOE sites presents significant monitoring and remediation challenges. This project will develop a novel ion sensor array for field deployment in monitoring important contaminants and also for use in concert with remediation efforts. The sensor array will provide real-time levels of metals at DOE sites and other areas of environmental concern. Phase I created ion selective electrodes for four contaminants of concern (uranium, strontium, thorium, lead, and cesium) and optimized them for maximal sensitivity to each ion. Selectivity was determined by flow injection analysis and tested spiked samples of groundwater. In Phase II, the array will be integrated with microfluidics, microprocessors, and microvolume ion chromatography to allow unattended, remote analysis at selected DOE sites. Electrodes will be used as detectors following chromatographic separation, thereby allowing two-point verification of each metal ion. A compact computer controlled fluidic and sample handling system will be built, and software will be developed for automatic sample collection, fluid handling, and metal ion concentration determination. The instrument will be tested at a DOE site and its results compared with those obtained using conventional analytical techniques. 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, require monitoring and remediation of hazardous contaminants. The sensor technology should have commercial application in testing existing sites, monitoring remediation and testing industrial effluents.