Research Information System
in: Biosensors for Environmental Analysis and Monitoring: Concepts, Applications and Challenges, Springer Nature, pp.227-242, 2026
EnvironmentalEnvironmentalcontaminationContaminationbyEnvironmenttrace metalsTrace metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic remains a persistent and severe global concern due to their toxicity, persistence, and bioaccumulation potential. Conventional analytical methods like Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) offer high accuracy but are often limited to centralized laboratories due to high costs, complex sample preparations, and the need for skilled operators. In recent years, biosensorBiosensortechnologiesTechnology have emerged as promising alternatives for detecting trace metalsTrace metalsin environmentalEnvironmental matrices owing to their sensitivity, selectivity, portability, and potential for real-timeMonitoringmonitoringReal-time monitoring. BiosensorsBiosensor, which integrate biological recognition elements with physicochemical transducersTransducer, offer versatile platforms for the detection of specific metal ions. Electrochemical biosensorsElectrochemical biosensors, utilizing techniques such as voltammetry and amperometry, have demonstrated remarkable sensitivity for detecting heavy metalsHeavy metals at trace levels. Similarly, optical biosensorsOptical biosensors based on surface plasmon resonance or fluorescence principles provide highly specific and quantitative detection capabilities. Recent advancements in nanotechnologyNanotechnology have further enhanced biosensorBiosensor performance through the incorporation of materials like gold nanoparticles, graphene, and carbon nanotubes, contributing to improved sensitivity and detection limitsDetection limits. Despite these advancements, challengesChallenges such as matrix interferences, stability of biological components, and regulatory acceptance persist. Future directions involve integrating biosensorsBiosensor with microfluidic systems, artificial intelligenceArtificial Intelligence (AI)(AI), and Internet of ThingsInternet of Things (IoT) (IoT) platforms to facilitate autonomous, real-time, and field-deployable monitoringMonitoringsolutionsSolutions. These technologiesTechnology hold significant potential to complement traditional methods and contribute to proactive environmentalEnvironmental risk management strategies. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the current state, challengesChallenges, and future perspectives of biosensorBiosensortechnologiesTechnologyfor trace metalTrace metals detection, highlighting their vital role in advancing environmentalMonitoringmonitoringEnvironmental monitoring and public health protection.