PDMS based photonic lab-on-a-chip for the selective optical detection of heavy metal ions.

The selective absorbance detection of mercury(II) (Hg(2+)) and lead(II) (Pb(2+)) ions using ferrocene-based colorimetric ligands and miniaturized multiple internal reflection (MIR) systems implemented in a low-cost photonic lab on a chip (PhLoC) is reported. The detection principle is based on the formation of selective stable complexes between the heavy metal ion and the corresponding ligand. This interaction modulates the ligand spectrum by giving rise to new absorbance bands or wavelength shifting of the existing ones.