Scientists at Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU) have developed colorimetric sensors for recognizing various substances in food products, beverages, biological fluids, and water.
The sensors can be linked to a smartphone to conduct primary chemical analysis in a matter of seconds to minutes using a neural network. The system's principle of operation is simple: each sensor changes color upon contact with a substance, the smartphone receives a digital image and interprets the results, recognizing the substance and determining its concentration. The sensors are made of plexiglass, modified to change color. Each sensor is individual for each substance with a corresponding color.
The TPU digital colorimetry system uses the entire visible spectrum from 400 to 800 nanometers, providing accurate data and stable characteristics. When detecting harmful substances, regulatory documents and natural limitations are taken into account. Data processing is performed using smartphone applications or graphic editors. In 2025, scientists plan to develop a neural network for recognizing substances and their concentrations, which will expand the system's capabilities and make it multisensory.
The sensors can be used for monitoring oil fields, hydrological research, environmental monitoring, and quality control.
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