Spectroelectrochemical Sensor for Pertechnetate Applicable to Hanford and Other DOE Sites

The general aim of our work funded by DOE is the design and implementation of a new sensor technology that offers the unprecedented levels of specificity needed for analysis of the complex chemical mixtures found at DOE sites nationwide. The sensor is based on a unique combination of electrochemistry, spectroscopy and selective partitioning into a film that collectively provide an extraordinary level of selectivity for the target analyte. Our goal is a reversible sensor in which the fluorescent Tc-complex formed in the film is re-oxidized to TcO4 ? and free ligand. TcO4 ? in the film would then re-equilibrate with the sample. The sensor would therefore satisfy requirements for both applications described above. Making significant progress towards this goal has required us to discover new chemistry and spectroscopy for technetium itself. Indeed, we needed to find the first technetium complexes which fluoresced in solution at room temperature ? we have made that breakthrough discovery this last year. We are now in the unique position of being able to reach our goal of a reversible sensor for Tc.