Cyanide Sensor

Context: Researchers at the Central University of Kerala have developed a highly sensitive and selective cyanide sensor that changes color from yellow to colorless upon detecting cyanide.

• Detection Capabilities: The sensor is capable of detecting toxic cyanide at very low concentrations, offering potential enhancements in the safety of drinking water and food products.
• Applications:
  • Detection in Tapioca Extracts: The sensor can effectively detect cyanide in tapioca extracts, changing its color from yellow to bluish-green.
  • Development of Detection Strips: It can be used to develop strips for qualitative detection, which could be particularly relevant in cases of cyanide poisoning.

Cyanide (CN-):

• Toxicity: Cyanide is a potent toxin found in various plants, fruits, and microorganisms.
• Sources: It is present in vehicle exhaust, as well as in foods such as cassava (tapioca), apple and apricot seeds, sprouting potatoes, and almonds.
• Regulation: The World Health Organization (WHO) has established strict limits on cyanide levels in drinking water, setting the maximum permissible concentration at 0.19 mg/L.