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Measuring mercury with nanotechnology (RMIT, 5/27/09) |
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June 06, 2009 |
RMIT’s research on mercury monitoring through nano-engineered gold surfaces recently featured on the cover of the prestigious journal, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Physics, a publication of the Royal Society of Chemistry.
The research team behind the publication was led by Professor Suresh Bhargava and included Dr Prashant Sawant, Dr Vipul Bansal, Dr Samuel Ippolito and Dr Ylias Sabri.
RMIT University researchers have used breakthrough nanotechnology to create a pioneering sensor that can precisely measure one of the world’s most poisonous substances, mercury.
The mercury sensor developed by RMIT’s Industrial Chemistry Group uses tiny flecks of gold that are nano-engineered to make them irresistible to mercury molecules.
In the effort to reduce mercury contamination in the environment and the associated health risks, accurately measuring the toxin has become a priority for mercury-emitting industries like coal-burning power generators and alumina refineries.
Professor Suresh Bhargava, Dean of the School of Applied Sciences, said traditional mercury sensors used by industry could be unreliable.
“Industrial chimneys release a complex concoction of volatile organic compounds, ammonia and water vapour that can interfere with the monitoring systems of mercury sensors,” Professor Bhargava said.
“We wanted a sensor that would be robust enough to cope with that kind of industrial environment but also sensitive enough to give precise readings of the amount of mercury vapour in these emissions.”
http://www.rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=xwzx3dxlgxzi
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