Development of a 3D-Printed Paper-Based Microfluidic Colorimetric Sensor for Nitrate Detection Using Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs)

Shu Yu Lee; Chin Fhong Soon; Intan Sue Liana Binti Abdul Hamid

doi:10.56532/mjsat.v6iS2.823

Authors

Lee Shu Yu Tun Hussein Onn University of Malaysia
Chin Fhong Soon Tun Hussein Onn University of Malaysia
Intan Sue Liana Binti Abdul Hamid Department of Electronic Engineering, Fakulti Kejuruteraan Elektrik dan Elektronik, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, 86400 Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, Johor, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56532/mjsat.v6iS2.823

Keywords:

Paper-based microfluidic, Silver nanoparticles, Nitrate detection, Colorimetric sensor, 3D printing

Abstract

Nitrate contamination in water is a serious environmental and public health issue worldwide. Conventional detection methods are accurate but expensive. This project develops a portable, low-cost 3D-printed paper-based microfluidic colorimetric sensor using silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) for nitrate detection. AgNPs were synthesized by chemical reduction and characterized using XRD, UV-Vis and FESEM. Two paper-based designs (dual-zone and Y-shaped) were fabricated on Whatman No.1 filter paper. A 3D-printed PLA holder supported the paper and guided capillary flow. Colour changes were measured using a blue LED and photodetector. Characterization confirmed crystalline, spherical AgNPs with an SPR peak at 400 nm. Both designs showed a linear response. The Y-shaped design gave a lower detection limit (66.54 ppm) than the dual-zone (92.20 ppm). The sensor successfully quantified nitrate and shows good potential as a low-cost platform.

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