Development of innovative sensing approaches based on natural compounds using cellulose substrates combined with optical detection

Resumo

The analytical methodologies used for the determination of contaminants commonly require advanced analytical instrumentation, which hinders their application in on-site analysis. The development of miniaturized instrumental systems allows decentralized analysis, although it is necessary to develop preconcentration and selective detection strategies that allow the unequivocal determination of compounds of interest at low concentration levels. In addition, the combination of widely deployed electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, scanners or webcams, with image processing software offers new opportunities for chemical analysis. However, these systems generally show low sensitivity and selectivity. Therefore, it would be highly desirable to develop sensitive and selective methods involving portable detection systems and, especially, high-implementation electronic devices for on-site quantitative analysis with minimal consumption of chemical reagents. In this regard, a number of optically active molecular compounds derived from natural compounds, are highly promising for non-instrumental optical detection. The present PhD research project is focused on the development of new optical sensors for the monitoring of various environmental pollutants. The general objectives are the design of new miniaturized analytical systems for the ultrasensitive detection of analytes of environmental interest. Implementation of optically active materials in micro-separation systems. Preliminary evaluation of the potential of these systems. Use of miniaturized instrumental optical techniques (UV-vis spectrophotometry and fluorospectrometry). Combination of miniaturized analytical systems with digitization and image processing systems for non-conventional optical detection. Study of the recognition mechanism of analytes of interest by means of instrumental characterization techniques and computational studies. Development of novel, rapid, sensitive and selective analytical methodologies with potential for on-site analysis.