AroTrack: IIT Bombay Scientists Develop Water-Pollutant Detecting Device

November 21, 2024

AroTrack is a groundbreaking device developed by scientists at IIT Bombay, which aims to tackle the critical issue of water pollution. The device can detect harmful pollutants like phenol and benzene in water, which utilises proteins from bacteria that thrive in contaminated environments. This innovation is essential as water pollution rises due to industrialisation and waste disposal.

Device Overview

AroTrack is a portable and low-cost solution. which is roughly the size of a small projector. The device was created by a team led by Professor Ruchi Anand and Professor Rajdip Bandyopadhyaya, which employs a biosensor known as MopR, developed in 2017 from Acinetobacter calcoaceticus bacteria.

Detection Mechanism

The device detects pollutants by causing a colour change in the water sample. When mixed with the sample, the proteins react chemically to aromatic compounds. AroTrack measures the intensity of the colour change by shining light through the sample. Higher absorbance indicates a greater concentration of pollutants.

Affordability and Accessibility

AroTrack is designed to be affordable, costing around $50 (less than ₹5,000). Its user-friendly design allows anyone to operate it, regardless of technical skills. This accessibility is crucial for communities with limited access to expensive lab tests.

Performance and Testing

The device can detect pollutants at very low concentrations, ranging from 10 to 200 parts per billion. It has been tested in both simulated wastewater and real environmental samples. AroTrack remains effective in water temperatures up to 50°C. It provides results in under 30 minutes, making it suitable for rural and low-income areas.

The team is working to enhance AroTrack’s capabilities, which aim to expand the range of detectable pollutants, including more complex chemicals. Currently, AroTrack is in the prototype stage, with further testing planned for refinement and broader application.

Important Facts for Exams:
AroTrack: AroTrack is a portable device developed by IIT Bombay. It detects water pollutants like phenol and benzene. It uses bacterial proteins to identify contaminants through colour change.
MopR: MopR is a biosensor derived from Acinetobacter calcoaceticus bacteria. It was developed in 2017. MopR is known for its selectivity and stability in complex environments.
Acinetobacter calcoaceticus: Acinetobacter calcoaceticus is a type of bacteria. It thrives in polluted environments. This bacterium is crucial for developing biosensors like MopR to detect water pollutants.

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