Research Focus

Chemical Sensors, Electrochemistry, Materials Chemistry, and Surface Chemistry

Established in 2014, the Sensor Materials Development and Electrochemical Analysis Laboratory (SMDEAL) focuses on the development, fabrication, and fundamental studies on chemical and biochemical sensors for detecting target pollutants and contaminants. Sensors are prepared from polymers and nanomaterials (metallic, metal oxide, or carbon-based) to form a nanocomposite, which acts as specific sensor recognition site for sensing target analytes, such as pesticides and important biomolecules. Sensitive level of detection is achieved mainly through the use of electrochemical techniques (voltammetry, impedance, amperometry) or in tandem with other methods such spectroelectrochemistry and surface techniques.

Since its establishment, SMDEAL have trained and supported students in completing their BS and MS degrees, mainly in Chemistry and in Materials Science and Engineering courses in the College of Science, UP Diliman. As materials science is a key focus of SMDEAL research activities, SMDEAL have since expanded to other related topics, in particular, electrospinning of polymers, micellar systems, and photoelectrochemistry, for specific target applications.

Since its inception, SMDEAL have supported students and young researchers on the field of chemical sensors research, which resulted in outputs, such as utility models, presentations in local and international conferences, as well as publications in peer-reviewed journals.