Self-powered lab-on-chip sensors based on molecularly imprinted nanopolymers (nanoMIPs)

• Grant number: 25/18010-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: January 01, 2026
• End date: December 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Materials and Metallurgical Engineering - Nonmetallic Materials
• Principal Investigator: Daniel Souza Corrêa
• Grantee: Rafael Resende Assis Silva
• Host Institution: Embrapa Instrumentação Agropecuária. Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária (EMBRAPA). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The increasing presence of emerging pollutants such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and volatile alkaline compounds in natural and urban environments poses a critical challenge to human health and environmental safety. Effective real-time detection of these contaminants in complex matrices remains hindered by centralized, costly, and infrastructure-dependent laboratory methods. This project aims to develop portable, self-powered sensors integrated into Lab-on-Chip platforms for the selective detection of priority environmental pollutants. The proposed approach combines molecularly imprinted nanopolymers (nanoMIPs), laser-induced graphene (LIG) electrodes, and triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), forming an innovative platform that is sensitive, selective, reusable, and energy-autonomous. These sensors are designed to overcome the limitations of conventional laboratory methods, enabling real-time, in situ, and continuous monitoring of pollutants, even in complex matrices such as wastewater, industrial effluents, and biological fluids. Grounded in the principles of sustainability and technological innovation, the project employs low-cost, high-performance materials, and incorporates wireless communication (BLE/NFC) and user-friendly digital interfaces. With direct applications in environmental monitoring, occupational health, and food safety, the system holds strong potential to expand access to analytical technologies in decentralized contexts, reducing operational costs, response time, and health-related risks. Fully aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the project contributes to the advancement of impactful scientific and socially relevant solutions. (AU)