Biodegradable Zinc and Copper Electrodes for Sensors in Pollutant Detection

• Grant number: 25/01337-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Post-doctor
• Start date: May 12, 2025
• End date: May 11, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Materials and Metallurgical Engineering - Nonmetallic Materials
• Principal Investigator: Carlos José Leopoldo Constantino
• Grantee: Rogério Miranda Morais
• Supervisor: Jeff Kettle
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia (FCT). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Presidente Prudente. Presidente Prudente , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: University of Glasgow, Scotland
• Associated to the scholarship: 23/10098-0 - Exploring laser-induced graphene and SERS effect in the development of sustainable sensors, BP.PD

Abstract

The growing environmental contamination by industrial pollutants requires efficient and sustainable technologies for monitoring. This project proposes biodegradable sensors based on zinc and copper electrodes, deposited by electrodeposition on sustainable substrates (paper, PBAT, cellulose and chitosan). These electrodes will be applied in Electrolyte-Gated Field-Effect Transistors (EGFETs) and in Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) for pollutant detection with high sensitivity. Zinc will be used in the source and drain electrodes due to its biodegradability and compatibility with ZnO, while copper will be used in the gate for its chemical stability and amplification of Raman signals. Optimization of electroplating parameters will ensure electrodes with excellent electrical and structural performance. The sensor will be tested for detecting of indigo dye in aqueous solution, with the possibility of expansion to other contaminants. The combination of SERS and EGFET techniques will provide greater selectivity in detection. Furthermore, a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) will be conducted using Sphera GaBi software to assess the environmental impact of the sensors and propose strategies for enhanced sustainability. The internship will be conducted in the group of Prof. Jeff Kettle, an expert in sustainable design of electronic devices, ensuring a qualified environment for the development of innovative sensors aligned with sustainable electronics. This project adheres to the postdoctoral (2023/10098-0) and SPRINT (2023/14843-1) projects, in which the candidate is inserted, strengthening the collaboration between Brazilian and international institutions for the advancement of sustainable sensors and innovative environmental technologies.