Sensors Laboratory
Key facilities
Sensor test rigs
Both rigs have the capacity to measure nine sensors at one time. The rigs are computerised and controlled using in-house designed software.
Sensor-Array systems
These can both be linked to in-house designed autosampling valve assemblies, and are controlled via computer/in-house written software.
One system is currently undergoing independent field trials at Campden and Chorleywood Food Research Association at a wheat intake laboratory.
The other sensor system is currently linked to a Gas Chromatography system in order to assess hybrid separation/sensor systems for disease detection.
Electronic Nose
A commercial handheld electronic nose which is used as a comparative benchmark for developing methods.
Applications
Projects that take place in the volatile analysis lab translate to the Sensors Laboratory as this is where sensors/systems are produced according to the volatiles detected.
Other research being carried out includes a project to look at methods/systems for detecting accelerants at arson sites. This has resulted in a novel light-activated sensor, capable of sensitive detection of non-polar volatiles at room temperature.
Other projects include:
- a project to detect markers of stress in humans (sponsored by BAE Systems)
- a project to synthesise novel magnetic molecules for the specific removal of radioactive ions from effluents (sponsored by BRADTECH);
- and a project concerned with chemical computing (sponsored by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council