Detecting harmful chemicals in water using advanced sensors
Official title: Graphene-based Nanosensors for Rapid Detection of Low-concentration PFAS in Water
Funded at Nanoaffix Science, LLC · NIH-10920945 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a handy device that can quickly and cheaply check your drinking water for harmful chemicals called PFAS, which are linked to serious health problems, so you can know right away if your water is safe to drink.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Nanoaffix Science, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $293,800 |
| NIH project number | 1R43ES036055-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10920945 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas where PFAS contamination in drinking water is a concern.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume water from sources potentially contaminated with PFAS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a portable device that can quickly and affordably detect low levels of harmful per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. PFAS are toxic chemicals linked to serious health issues, including cancer, and are commonly found in water supplies. The project aims to create graphene-based sensor chips that can be used directly at the point of water consumption, allowing for immediate results without the need for expensive laboratory testing. By providing a rapid testing solution, this research seeks to enhance public health and safety.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the ability to monitor and ensure safe drinking water by providing rapid detection of harmful PFAS levels.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using graphene-based sensors for detecting other contaminants, indicating a promising approach for this application.
Where this research is happening
-
Nanoaffix Science, LLC
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hill, James Curtis — Nanoaffix Science, LLC
- Study coordinator: Hill, James Curtis
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.