Context:
Recently, the Nanomaterials and Nanoelectronics Laboratory, Department of Physics, Guwahati University, Assam has developed a cost-effective formalin sensor that can effectively detect the presence of formalin in adulterated fishes.
Relevance:
GS III: Science and Technology
Dimensions of the Article:
- Non-invasive Formaldehyde Sensor: Revolutionizing Detection Technology
- Formaldehyde: A Pungent, Industrial Gas
Non-invasive Formaldehyde Sensor: Revolutionizing Detection Technology
Sensor Composition:
- Materials Used: Tin oxide-reduced graphene oxide composite (rGO-SnO2).
Key Components:
- Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) for detecting various toxic gases and VOCs.
- Tin oxide (SnO2) known for formaldehyde detection due to high stability and sensitivity.
Synthesis Process:
- Wet chemical processing of Graphene oxide (GO).
- Synthesis of rGO-SnO2 composite through a hydrothermal route followed by calcination.
Sensor Characteristics:
- Effectiveness: Tin oxide decorated with reduced graphene oxide.
- Detection: Efficient sensing of formaldehyde vapour at room temperature.
- Stability: Long-term stability with a low detection limit.
- Application: Non-invasive detection of formalin adulteration in fishes.
Comparison with Existing Sensors:
- Commercial Sensors: Primarily electrochemical or colorimetric.
- Issues: Expensive, invasive, and face challenges in low-level and selective detection.
Significance of the New Sensor:
- 2D Materials Advantage: Leveraging 2D materials for gas sensors enhances the detection of toxic vapours at room temperature.
- Potential Impact: Detection of formalin evaporation from adulterated food products, particularly in the fish industry.
- Support: Research supported by DST-PURSE (Promotion of University Research and Scientific Excellence).
Formaldehyde: A Pungent, Industrial Gas
Characteristics:
- Form: Colourless.
- Odor: Pungent.
Applications:
- Industrial Use: Integral in various industrial processes.
- Food Industry: Used as a preservative, notably in fish preservation in developing nations.
Industrial Significance:
- Preservative Role: Utilized for its preservative properties, extending the shelf life of certain food products.
- Versatility: Employed in diverse industrial applications owing to its unique chemical properties.
Health Implications:
- Exposure Concerns: Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde can have adverse health effects.
- Respiratory Irritant: Known for its irritating effect on the respiratory system.
Global Usage:
- Widespread: Found in various industrial and consumer products globally.
- Concerns: The use of formaldehyde in certain applications raises health and safety concerns, necessitating accurate detection methods.
Detection Importance:
- Adulteration Alert: Critical in identifying formalin adulteration, particularly in the fish industry.
- Safety Assurance: Ensures compliance with safety standards and regulations in various sectors.
