Subventions et des contributions :

Subvention ou bourse octroyée s'appliquant à plus d'un exercice financier (2017-2018 à 2018-2019).

This project develops a microfluidic preconcentration device that is critical to improve the sensitivity of heavyx000D
metal sensors which are used for monitoring the environment. Assessment of water quality at a remote settingx000D
requires devices that are portable, inexpensive, user agnostic and accurate in measuring ions of interest. Wex000D
have recently developed a sensing system that is compact, low cost and automates the detection of heavyx000D
metals in water. However, the sensitivity of this sensing system is an order of magnitude poorer than thex000D
minimum allowable limits of heavy metals in the environment. Therefore, there is a critical need tox000D
pre-concentrate the environmental sample to meet the accuracy requirement. Among the various methods used,x000D
ion exchange is an effective method to preconcentrate in an autonomous manner. Our partner, Renix, is ax000D
leader in development of ion exchange systems for applications in environmental water treatment. They arex000D
interested in developing a value added product that could use their expertise in ion exchange to assist with thex000D
monitoring and detection of heavy metals. Using our combined expertise in ion exchange as well as inx000D
miniaturization, we will develop a preconcentration module that will automate the concentration and release ofx000D
the metal ions from environmental water samples. The preconcentration module will be tested in combinationx000D
with the sensing system to completely automate the detection process and its performance will be assessed overx000D
extended duration of time. The outcome of this project will not only extend the product line of our partner, butx000D
also provide a valuable tool that could potentially be used by them to optimize the performance of theirx000D
environmental water treatment systems. This project will also develop interdisciplinary skills in the studentsx000D
and the interaction with industrial partner will be an excellent training for the students.