The subject of the latest news is an innovative sensor developed by a research team from Guwahati University, Assam. This sensor, made of a metal oxide-reduced graphene oxide composite, promises to detect formalin adulteration in fish at room temperature in a safe and non-invasive manner.
Food Adulteration: A Global Problem
Food adulteration refers to adding illegal or harmful substances to food to enhance its appeal or extend its shelf life. Formaldehyde, a colorless gas with a strong smell, finds use in various industrial processes. Unfortunately, it is also used as a preservative for some foods, particularly fish, in developing countries. The usage of this known carcinogen in food is illegal in many countries due to serious health concerns.
The Novelty of the Metal oxide-rGO Sensor
The researchers created the sensor using Graphene Oxide (GO) derived from graphite, and a composite of tin oxide-reduced graphene oxide (rGO-SnO2). It’s affordable, non-invasive, selective, and champions the cause of preventing food adulteration and safeguarding consumers.
The Existing Formalin Detection Challenges
Currently, the detection of formalin in fish involves either expensive electrochemical-based sensors or more affordable but invasive colorimetric-based methods. Both of these present problems of limited and selective detection.
Working Mechanism of the Metal oxide-rGO Sensor
GO, being the oxidized form of graphene, initially presents a challenge owing to its low electrical conductivity. To overcome these limitations of GO, the researchers developed rGO-SnO2, a composite featuring enhanced properties. Here’s where the magic happens – reduced graphene oxide allows high solution processability and an easy chemical modification with other materials, while the tin oxide is characterized by high stability and sensitivity to low concentrations of formaldehyde.
The sensor, a powerful combination of tin oxide (SnO2) decorated Reduced graphene oxide (rGO), efficiently senses the formaldehyde vapor at room temperature. Renowned for detecting toxic gases, rGO collaborates with SnO2, an expert in formaldehyde detection, resulting in a maximization of their individual strengths.
Designing the Prototype
The development of the prototype of this sensor is underway in the laboratory. Once successful, it will mark a significant breakthrough in our battle against food adulteration. The combined qualities of high effectiveness, low cost, and non-invasive nature make this sensor a potential game-changer in the field of food safety.