Nanotech Breakthrough: Graphene Metasensor Unveils Invisible Pesticide Threats

Arish Roy^*
*Correspondence: Arish Roy, Department of Nanobiotechnology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA, Email:

Introduction

Organophosphate insecticides with wide range and high productivity have an incredible effect on horticultural creation. The proper use of pesticides and their residuals have always been major concerns. Residual pesticides can build up and travel through the environment and food chain, posing health and safety risks to humans and animals. Traditionally, identification techniques for pesticide deposits incorporate superior execution fluid chromatography, gas chromatography, and fluid chromatography-pair mass spectrometry. Although these methods have a high sensitivity, their applications are limited by their expensive equipment, stringent experimental conditions, and extended experimental time. Additionally, an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) is a highly sensitive technique, but specific antibodies are required for its use. New detection techniques are needed because there are only a few antibodies and thousands of pesticides [1].

Measurement of Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, which is another method for detecting organophosphate pesticides, can serve as an indicator of the pesticide quantity present because organophosphate pesticides can inhibit AChE activity. However, in order to preserve enzyme activity, strict operational conditions are required [2]. Subsequently, accomplishing high-responsiveness, quick, and basic identification methods remain difficulties in recognizing pesticide deposits at follow levels.

Metamaterials, made out of sub-frequency occasional unit cells, can deliver plentiful electromagnetic reactions in the noticeable, terahertz, and infrared districts. These metamaterials are suitable for use in filters, optical modulators, sensors, and absorbers, among other applications, thanks to their ability to modulate the phase and amplitude of incident light through artificial design. Substance detection has been the focus of numerous metamaterial sensors. Additionally, a non-destructive and label-free method for detection is provided by metamaterials operating in the terahertz band [3].

Description

The graphene-based metamaterial sensor represents a revolutionary advancement in sensor technology. Graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, is known for its exceptional properties, including high electrical conductivity, remarkable strength, and incredible flexibility [4]. By leveraging these unique qualities, scientists have constructed an ultra-sensitive sensor capable of detecting even the tiniest concentrations of pesticides. This metamaterial sensor operates on the principle of Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR). When the target pesticide molecules come into contact with the sensor's surface, they induce changes in the refractive index of the surrounding graphene, triggering a measurable response. This response is then meticulously analyzed to determine the presence and concentration of the pesticide. The sensor's remarkable sensitivity allows it to detect trace amounts of pesticides that were previously undetectable by conventional means [5].

Conclusion

The development of the graphene-based metamaterial sensor marks a significant milestone in the field of pesticide trace detection. By providing an efficient and highly sensitive method for detecting even minute quantities of pesticides, this breakthrough technology has the potential to revolutionize food safety, environmental monitoring, and agricultural practices. The ability to identify and quantify pesticide residues accurately empowers regulatory authorities, farmers, and consumers to make informed decisions regarding pesticide usage, minimizing the health risks associated with pesticide exposure. Additionally, this nanotech breakthrough highlights the potential of graphene and metamaterials in developing advanced sensing platforms for a wide range of applications beyond pesticide detection. As research continues to refine and optimize the graphene-based metamaterial sensor, we can anticipate enhanced detection capabilities, improved reliability, and broader applicability in various fields. With continued advancements in nanotechnology, we are moving closer to a future where invisible threats like pesticide contamination can be readily identified and effectively addressed, fostering a safer and more sustainable world.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

There are no conflicts of interest by author.

References

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