Uranium (VI) detection in groundwater using a gold nanoparticle/paper-based lateral flow device.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Uranium contamination in groundwater poses significant health risks, including cancer and renal failure.
• Conventional uranium detection methods are slow, costly, and require non-portable equipment, hindering in-field analysis.
• Existing portable methods lack quantitative capabilities and sufficient sensitivity for regulatory compliance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a portable, rapid, and cost-effective biosensor for in-situ detection of uranium (U(VI)) in water samples.
• To overcome the limitations of current uranium detection techniques, particularly for drinking water monitoring.
• To establish a sensitive assay for U(VI) that meets or exceeds regulatory detection limits.

Main Methods:

• Development of a paper-based lateral flow biosensor utilizing antibody-coated gold nanoparticles.
• Employing a competitive assay format to detect the U(VI)-chelator complex (U(VI)-DCP).
• Utilizing the plasmonic properties of gold nanoparticles for enhanced sensitivity.

Main Results:

• The developed biosensor provides a portable, fast, and inexpensive method for U(VI) detection.
• Achieved a limit of detection of 36.38 nM for U(VI), which is below the WHO and EPA action level of 126 nM.
• Demonstrated the potential for in-situ, quantitative analysis of uranium in water samples.

Conclusions:

• The proposed gold nanoparticle-based lateral flow strips offer a promising solution for rapid, sensitive, and on-site uranium monitoring in water.
• This technology can significantly improve the timeliness and accessibility of uranium testing, aiding in public health protection.
• The biosensor's performance meets crucial regulatory standards for drinking water safety.