U
niversity of Zurich
Un
Technology Opportunity, Ref. No. UZ-12/639
UZ
“Naked-eye” Detection
etection of cyanide
c
in blood and other complex samples
A new, straightforward colorimetric device with spatially separated extraction and detection
zones for the easy, rapid, selective and sensitive visual detection of cyanide in complex
samples has been conceived. The system allows the sensitive, semi-quantitative visual
detection in coloured, biological samples such as blood and food without the need for highhigh
tech equipment. Quantitative measurements are possible with the use of appropriate
equipment. This technique can also be used to remove cyanide from contaminated sources.
Inventors:
Christine Männel-Croisé
Männel
and Dr. Felix Zelder.
References:
Männel-Croisé
é, C., Zelder, F., Anal. Meth. 2012, DOI:10.1039/C2AY25595B
OI:10.1039/C2AY25595B;
ACS Appl. Mater.
Mat Interfaces 2012, 4(2), 725-729; Inorg. Chem. 2009, 48,
1272-1274; Zelder, F. H., Inorg. Chem. 2008, 47, 1264-1266;
1266;
Background: Cyanide
yanide sensors are needed that combine excellent selectivity with high
sensitivity and allow the rapid, visual detection of cyanide in complex
coloured samples without additional sample preparation. Rapid detection of
blood cyanide in emergency situations is desirable for the immediate
treatment of fire-victims
fire
with cyanide antidots.
Invention:
It was found that colorimetric devices with spatially separated extraction and
detection zones expose high sensitivity towards cyanide. The applications of
the method for the semi-quantitative as well as quantitative detection of
cyanide in (i) complex, coloured biological matrices such as blood or plant
samples and of (ii) hydrogen cyanide in tobacco
tobacco smoke have been
demonstrated The simultaneous optical detection of the two anions CN- and
demonstrated.
SCN- within a single sample is possible. The chemosensors have further
shown to be an efficient filtering system for cyanide from contaminated water
or cigarette smoke.
Figure: Rapid detection of blood cyanide
Applications: Detection of cyanide and thiocyanate in complex samples such as blood,
foods, industrial waste water, drinking water etc. Removal of cyanide from
contaminated liquid and gaseous sources (e.g. smoke).
Patent status: Patent application filed
Contact:
Unitectra, Technology Transfer of University Zurich, Dr. Martin Binggeli,
Möhrlistrasse 23, CH-8006
8006 Zürich, +41 44 634 44 01, [email protected]