Construction and characterization of phenol sensor based on sol method of nanofabrication

Phenol is used in the synthesis of organic compounds in various industries is released into environment as a contaminant and polluting water and air. Chronic exposure even in minute quantities of phenol causes GI, Respiratory, CNS, Cardiac problems, mutagenicity, carcinogenicity and teratogenicity.;Because of its toxicological profile detection of phenol has been a major concern and several analytical methods are being used to control contamination but they need costly equipment and possess handling problems. Colorimetric detection of phenol by Gibbs reagent is an easy and cheap method of detecting phenol even in very low concentration. Sol-based nanofabricated Gibbs reagent sensor is constructed for on site detection in field sample in short duration of time. Sensor fabricated is structurally characterized by optical, electron (SEM & TEM) and Atomic force microscopy. Stability of the colloidal sensor was determined by Zetapotential Analyzer. Evaluation of sensor performance is carried out by the colorimetric studies for its sensitivity and response time.