Integrated Micro Lab Keeps Track of Ammonia in the Blood
1 min read
Summary
Markus Bindhammer has suffered from liver disease for a number of years and the side effects from ammonia in his blood can be severe, even leading to death in extreme cases.
While there are MEMS-based sensors for ammonia on the market, they only offer qualitative results, while industrial sensors, which offer more accuracy, are very expensive.
Taking a tip from chemistry, Bindhammer has used the Berthelot method to create an analyser that can detect ammonia concentrations in the blood by colour changes.
The process sees ammonia volatilised into air and then passed through a solution of phenol and hypochlorite which changes colour in the presence of ammonia.
A laser and photodiode are used to detect changes in colour and thus changes in ammonia levels.
