Development and integration of miniaturized capillary electrophoresis equipment into unmanned Aerial Vehicle for analysis of complex mixtures (DRONOMOUS)

Abstract

In recent years, autonomous chemical analysis devices for environmental research have become increasingly popular. Integration of capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) equipment into unmanned aerial vehicle have never been done. Successful integration of CZE will open up new opportunities for ecology and chemical analysis research. Analysis system consists of several modules. One of the modules is extraction system of chemical compounds form air samples. The extraction system is based on gas – liquid extraction method. Another module is miniaturized capillary zone electrophoresis system with programmable sample and electrolyte tray. Detector type – contactless conductivity detector. LaRa – R2 LTE 3G module (or similar) can be used for long range (up to 300 meters) wireless data transmission system. All non – electronic plastic parts are designed using 3D printer. Miniaturized capillary electrophoresis equipment allows to conduct not only simple air composition analysis special air quality monitoring but also can be used in more advance air pollution research. The aim of this project is to design, manufacture and optimize capillary zone electrophoresis equipment for airborne chemical analysis. Integration of miniaturized capillary electrophoresis equipment into Unmanned Aerial Vehicle allows more flexibility in conducting airborne analysis, especially where environmental conditions could be dangerous for human health.