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This project is somewhat removed
from our other work, although the focus is still on functional molecules.
Contaminated water is one of the most important health problems in the
less-developed world. It is estimated to cause 1.8 million deaths
annually, of which 1.5 million are of children under five. In trying to
address this issue, the first need is for water analysis, to determine if a
supply is safe. In the developed world this is straightforward enough, but
the tests are expensive and need laboratory facilities. In less developed
countries this poses major difficulties. We have joined with the other
partners in the Aquatest collaboration to develop a testing device (see picture)
which is tuned to the needs of the less-developed world. The programme is
funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. We are responsible for
designing reagents used in the device, which will change colour if the water is
potentially dangerous. For more
information, follow this link to
the Aquatest home page. |
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