Detection of formaldehyde vapor using a polymer-based hydrogel

Abstract

By Collin Ballard, Biochemistry

Advisor: Peng Zhang

Presentation ID: AM_D22

Abstract: Detection of formaldehyde vapor using a polymer-based hydrogel Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong scented chemical typically found in household products and building materials. This chemical can be released relatively quickly into indoor environment and is potentially dangerous if ingested. According to the American Cancer Society, formaldehyde has been classified as a carcinogen to human even at a low concentration. In this study, we developed a polymer-based hydrogel incorporated with formaldehyde reactive dye that can be used as an industrial setting to detect possible formaldehyde leaks. We used UV-vis to test the absorption of the hydrogel under the vapor of different concentrations of the formaldehyde solution. It is observed that there was a positive correlation between the concentration of formaldehyde used and the absorbance value of the color changing hydrogel. Furthermore, we discovered that the hydrogel in the presence of the proper catalyst changes color more efficiently.