A Novel Electrochemical Detection Strategy of Heavy Metal Monitoring
DOE Phase II Contract DE-FG03-01ER83239
This program will address development of a new method for electrochemical monitoring of heavy metals in water. Heavy metal contamination represents a major problem for DOE sites and several private sector operations including mining and metal finishing. The proposed method offers an alternative to standard electrochemical methods and promises to improve reliability and portability of the technique.
The overall objective of the combined Phase I and II program will be to develop a compact, portable, low-cost monitoring system for multiple heavy metals based on a novel approach to electrochemical monitoring which involves resistance measurements during electrochemical deposition and stripping of metals.
During Phase I we fabricated miniaturized monitoring devices on a chip, proved the technical feasibility of the new method and characterized it under a variety of conditions including analyte concentration, pH, ionic strength. Sensitivity and detection limit for the novel method were compared to standard anodic stripping voltammetry.
During Phase II the methods and apparatus proven feasible in Phase I will be refined and optimized to produce a robust, sensitive system for reliable monitoring of heavy metals. The system will exploit microelectrode technology and a novel approach to electrochemical monitoring to produce an effective and cost efficient long-term monitoring solution for toxic heavy metals.
The proposed sampling and monitoring system will be applicable to surface and subsurface water contamination problems relevant to DOE needs. Examples of potential private sector applications include monitoring emissions at metal plating facilities and on-site analysis of ground water quality and on-line monitoring of municipal drinking water and waste water.