Measuring mercury

RMIT University researchers have created a sensor that can precisely measure one of the world’s most poisonous substances, mercury.

The mercury sensor, developed by RMIT’s Industrial Chemistry Group, uses tiny flecks of gold that are nano-engineered to make them irresistible to mercury molecules.

In the effort to reduce mercury contamination in the environment and the associated health risks, accurately measuring the toxin has become a priority for mercury-emitting industries such as coal-burning power generators and alumina refineries.

Prof Suresh Bhargava, Dean of the School of Applied Sciences at RMIT, said traditional mercury sensors used by industry could be unreliable.

'Industrial chimneys release a complex concoction of volatile organic compounds, ammonia and water vapour that can interfere with the monitoring systems of mercury sensors,' Prof Bhargava added.

'We wanted a sensor that would be robust enough to cope with that kind of industrial environment but also sensitive enough to give precise readings of the amount of mercury vapour in these emissions.'