A high school junior who has already invented a pancreatic cancer sensor and a handheld explosives and environmental contaminants detection device developed a new sensor that deals with water pollution.
Kid genius Jack Andraka along with classmate Chloe Diggs created a life-saving microfluidic biosensor that can quickly and cheaply detect water contaminants. The credit card-sized biosensor acts as a water filter that can detect six environmental contaminants. It only takes $1 to create and takes 20 minutes to run, rendering it significantly cheaper and more efficient than comparable water pollution-fighting sensors. Part of the project also included a water filter composed of recycled water bottles.
The Siemens We Can Change the World Challenge first place national winner for grades 9 to 12 recently took home a $50,000 prize.
Credit Card-Sized Contaminant Sensors
High School Students Invented a Device for Water Pollution
Trend Themes
1. Low-cost Biosensors for Environmental Contaminants Detection - Disruptive innovation opportunities for companies to develop and market low-cost biosensors for water pollution that act as filters and detect multiple contaminants in a short amount of time.
2. DIY Environmental Solutions - Disruptive innovation opportunities for companies to create tools that enable individuals to create their own environmental solutions by using accessible and renewable resources.
3. Youth Innovation in Science - Disruptive innovation opportunities for companies to collaborate with young people and provide them with the necessary resources and mentorship to develop sustainable and innovative solutions for environmental challenges.
Industry Implications
1. Environmental Monitoring - Companies in this industry can benefit from partnering with innovators to integrate low-cost biosensors for environmental contaminants detection into their existing monitoring systems.
2. DIY and Sustainable Living - Companies that promote sustainable living can benefit from partnering with innovators to bring accessible and affordable environmental solutions to the wider public.
3. Science Education - Companies in this industry can benefit from supporting youth innovation in science by providing educational resources and opportunities to young people interested in environmental science and technology.