A rapid field detection method for arsenic in drinking water.
Anuradha Baghel1, Beer Singh, Pratibha Pandey
1Defence Research & Development Establishment, Gwalior, India.
Summary
A new rapid colorimetric method for arsenic detection was developed using magnesium turnings and oxalic acid. This method offers faster arsenic detection times, showing potential for improved field testing kits.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Arsenic contamination poses significant health risks.
- Accurate and rapid arsenic detection methods are crucial for public health and environmental monitoring.
- Existing methods can be time-consuming or require specialized equipment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a rapid, cost-effective colorimetric method for arsenic detection.
- To optimize arsine generation for enhanced sensitivity and speed.
- To evaluate the potential of the developed method for field applications.
Main Methods:
- Tested various reagents, including magnesium turnings and different acids, for arsine generation.
- Employed a colorimetric reaction with auric chloride on filter paper for detection.
- Measured detection time and detection limits for different arsenic concentrations and acids.
Main Results:
- Oxalic acid was identified as the optimal acid for arsine generation.
- Achieved detection of 10 ppb arsenic in 10 minutes.
- Detected arsenic concentrations above 50 ppb in just 1 minute.
Conclusions:
- The developed colorimetric method significantly reduces arsenic detection time.
- Oxalic acid facilitates efficient and rapid arsine generation for arsenic analysis.
- This method shows promise for the development of portable arsenic field detection kits.
