In a groundbreaking achievement, two lecturers from Kaduna State University’s Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Dr. Hauwa Mohammed Mustafa and Salamatu Hayatu have won the Gold and Bronze award for their research on a revolutionary paper electrode sensor device.
Their presentation at the iSAMN 2024 conference organised by the Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ION2), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) in collaboration with the National Nanotechnology Centre (NNC), Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) Malaysia showcased a novel approach in detecting Codeine and Tramadol, two substances often misused in Nigeria.
The study utilised advanced materials like gold nanoparticles and graphene doped with nitrogen, serving as effective transduction elements and colourimetric probes. The unique combination allowed for a highly sensitive detection process. The colourimetric analysis method, which reveals different colouration based on drug concentration, provided a straightforward response. Meanwhile, the use of electrochemical techniques—cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry—yielded impressive linear detection ranges, particularly at low concentrations for both drugs.
In a real-world application, the sensor was tested on urine samples from individuals with substance use issues, demonstrating its reliability. These promising results suggest potential for the device’s field deployment and eventual commercialization, offering a valuable tool for addressing drug misuse in communities.
The Director University Advancement, Alhaji Usman Tabari, congratulated and graciously rewarded the winners, each with N200,000 and N100,000, respectively, for this great achievement.
Signed
Adamu Nuhu Bargo
Public Relations Officer,
Kaduna State University.