title: Bio-inspired colorimetric detection of Hg2+ and Pb2+ heavy metal ions using Au nanoparticles.
abstract: Heavy metal ions are highly toxic species which can cause long-term damage to biological systems. These species are known to disrupt biological events at the cellular level, cause significant oxidative damage, and are carcinogens. The production of simple, in-field detection methods that are highly sensitive for these cations is highly desirable in response to global pollution. In that regard, bio-inspired colorimetric sensing systems have been developed to detect Hg(2+) and Pb(2+), and other cations, down to nmol L(-1) concentrations. The benefits of these systems, which are reviewed herein, include cost-effective production, facile usage, and a visual color change for the detection method. Such advantages are significant positive steps for heavy metal ion detection, especially in regions where sophisticated laboratory studies are prohibited.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, 101 Chemistry-Physics Building, Lexington, KY 40506-0055, USA. mrknec2@email.uky.edu
authors.forename: Marc R
authors.initials: MR
authors.lastname: Knecht
authors.forename: Manish
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Sethi
mesh_terms: D003124:Colorimetry; D006046:Gold / Q000737:chemistry*; D007477:Ions / Q000032:analysis; D007854:Lead / Q000032:analysis*; D008628:Mercury / Q000032:analysis*; D053768:Metal Nanoparticles / Q000737:chemistry*
chemical_list: D007477:Ions; D007854:Lead; D006046:Gold; D008628:Mercury