National University of Kaohsiung / Prof. Ching Yuan
Pain Points Solved
Key advantages of this technology include:
High sensitivity: The large surface area and electrical conductivity of biochar enhance the electrochemical signal response.
Rapid detection: Short testing times enable real-time or on-site monitoring.
Sustainable materials: The sensing material is made from recycled agricultural waste, supporting environmental sustainability and a circular economy.
Low-cost production: The simple fabrication process supports large-scale sensor production and wider adoption.
Technology Introduction
This technology uses a biochar-based sensor to detect tetracycline in water. Its core principle is to produce biochar from biomass through high-temperature pyrolysis and use it as the sensing material in a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor. When the sensor is applied to water containing tetracycline, it rapidly generates an electrochemical signal, which is then processed to determine the tetracycline concentration. The method is sensitive, fast, low-cost, and suitable for on-site use, making it applicable to water quality monitoring and the assessment of antibiotic pollution risks.
Application Examples
Potential applications
Water quality and environmental monitoring: Survey antibiotic contamination in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
Aquaculture and livestock farming: Monitor antibiotic residues in aquaculture water to help ensure the safety of aquatic products.
Hospital and pharmaceutical wastewater management: Monitor tetracycline concentrations in wastewater to help prevent further environmental contamination.
Drinking water and wastewater treatment: Assess water quality and treatment effectiveness.
Environmental engineering and consulting: Support site investigations and pollution risk assessments.
Related Links
Patent Name and Number
None
Industry-Academia / Tech Transfer Partner
None
Honors and Awards
None
Technical Contact
Vivian Lee, Administrative Assistant
National University of Kaohsiung
Tel: +886 7-5916639
Email: vivianlee@nuk.edu.tw