Development of a fiber-optic sensor for trace metal detection in aqueous environments

The availability and speciation of a number of metals widely dispersed in the aquatic environment intimately affect the biogeochemistry of the ocean and its inhabitants. Much research has been focused on the development of analytical methodologies to elucidate better the background concentrations, variability, and contaminant effects of metal species. The purpose of this research is to investigate the viability of a fiber-optic sensor that will be a sensitive and selective probe for trace metals in natural waters.