A team of students from the University of Glasgow won a well-deserved first prize in the Environment section of the International Genetically Engineered Machine awards with their unique invention: the world’s first self-powered biosensor, designed with a combination of knowledge of molecular biology, computing, engineering, mathematics and statistics.
Well, what’s so great about the biosensor? It can sniff out pollution and then generate its own electricity to set off an early-warning system. It could be used to warn of chemical leaks before they become too damaging to humans and the environment at industrial plants, oil pipelines and landfill sites.
Now that’s something! Let’s hear from the students themselves how this innovative gadget works. According to student Scott Ramsay,
The research involved engineering a microbe that detects toxic chemicals — like those resulting from oil and natural gas refineries. When the microbes detect the offending chemicals they synthesise a chemical causing the fuel cells to generate electricity that can trigger a signal to act as an early warning system.
The usage of the gadget isn’t restricted to industrial plants, oil pipelines and landfill sites. If developed further, it can even detect pesticide levels, for example, pesticides in baby food or toxins in drinking water.
All those involved with the project as well as the students themselves are very proud of their achievement. And so are we.
Via: Eureka
