Researchers at Sharjah University invent sensors for detecting toxic pesticides and warfare chemicals

Sharjah: Researchers at the American University of Sharjah have created two special sensors that can detect very small amounts of harmful chemicals containing phosphorus. These chemicals are found in things like pesticides and even dangerous substances used in warfare.

These sensors have many uses. They can help the military find dangerous chemicals, help farmers check their crops for harmful pesticides, and help in factories to make sure toxic chemicals are not present. They can also be used in emergencies when chemicals are spilled, and in other areas like public safety and scientific research.

The university has applied for a patent to protect this new technology. The scientists who developed the sensors are now working to build a prototype that can be used in real situations.

“These sensors are very good at finding tiny amounts of these chemicals,” explained Dr. Sofian Kanan, one of the lead researchers. “They change color quickly when they come into contact with these harmful substances, which helps us detect them right away. This quick detection can also help lessen the harm these chemicals can cause, so these sensors are useful for both finding and protecting against them.”

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Unlike other sensors that need high temperatures and special conditions, these ones work well at normal room temperature. They are very sensitive and accurate, even when there are other things like water around that might interfere with their job. Plus, they are stable and can be made in large numbers easily, which makes them a great tool for spotting dangerous chemicals.

The researchers spent about 10 months working on these sensors, figuring out how to make them and testing them to make sure they work well. Now, they can make these sensors in just one week in their labs.

Overall, these sensors invented by American University of Sharjah are a big step forward in keeping people safe from harmful chemicals by quickly and accurately finding them wherever they might be.