Surfactant Sensors for Environmental Analysis

Abstract

Growing environmental pollution has long been drawing the attention of researchers and technocrats. In this scenario, surfactants play a major role in modifying surfaces by increasing their surface area and porosity, thereby improving the response of sensors for environmental pollutants. However, surfactants sometimes pose danger to the surroundings due to their toxic nature. This chapter aims to discuss both aspects of surfactants. The first half deals with the sensors employed for sensing harmful surfactants in the environment, while the rest of the chapter focuses on surfactant-based sensors to detect trace levels of noxious pollutants in the environment, such as colourants, heavy metals and pesticides. Reading through the chapter will definitely help in making a rational choice of surfactants for environmental analysis and design new technologies.