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Monday, 30th April 2007 (7824 views)

Gold nanoparticles could be used to test for mercury in water and other sources, according to experts from Northwestern University.

Scientists have claimed that a simple "litmus test" for mercury is possible using DNA and gold nanoparticles, meaning on-the-spot environmental tests could be conducted to test the levels of contamination in rivers, lakes and other areas.

"It is critical to detect mercury quickly, accurately and at its source," said professors Chad Mirkin and George Rathmann, who led the study. "Most existing detection methods require expensive complicated equipment forcing tests to take place in a lab."

They explained that their method is "simpler, faster and more convenient than conventional methods" and also allows results to be read "with the naked eye at the point of use".

This is particularly helpful when testing mercury levels on location, without lab equipment.

Gold nanoparticles are used to highlight the levels by their colour. When held together with DNA, the particles appear blue, but when heated to 46 degrees Celsius, they break apart and change from blue to red as the gold heats up.

However, with mercury present, this break up occurs at a higher temperature.

 

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