IPB University Expert Highlights the Role of Analytical Chemistry in Measuring Lead Levels in Drinking Water
As an expert in analytical chemistry as well as a Permanent Professor of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) from IPB University, Prof Eti Rohaeti, emphasized that analytical chemistry is a branch of chemistry that focuses on exploring, obtaining, processing, and communicating the composition and structure of natural and artificial materials.
According to her, analytical chemistry not only plays a role in chemical research, but also makes a significant contribution in various sectors of human life. “In medicine, analytical chemistry is used to diagnose parathyroid disease in humans. In industry, analytical chemistry is used to determine the effectiveness of exhaust emission control devices,” said Prof Eti.
She continued, analytical chemistry is used to regulate the need for fertilizer and water during plant growth. Meanwhile, in household gas analytical chemistry is used in periodic monitoring, ensuring the gas is safe from possible leaks.
“In the world of analytical chemistry, there are two main approaches, namely qualitative and quantitative analysis. In quantitative analysis, analytical chemistry is used in measuring lead levels or Pb ions in drinking water, so it requires high accuracy to detect possible hazards,” said Prof Eti during the Press Conference for Professor’s Scientific Oration on 20/6 by online.
She said lead is highly toxic to humans and can cause serious damage to organs, therefore controlling lead levels in drinking water is very important in accordance with applicable regulations.
“Research on the development of absorbent materials, such as modified silica gel, has shown a good ability to absorb lead from the water environment. However, to be widely applied, further research is still needed to improve the efficiency of the preconcentration process of drinking water samples,” she explained.
In addition, continued Prof Eti, the use of magnetite material (Fe3O4) has also been shown to increase the adsorption capacity by 70 percent, thus opening up great potential for further development of analytical chemistry.
“The results of this research not only reflect innovation in the field of analytical chemistry, but also illustrate the importance of the discipline in facing future challenges,” said the lecturer of the Department of Chemistry at IPB University.
She mentioned that the plan to use magnetite material in further research is an important step to further explore the direction and development trends of Analytical Chemistry in the next decade.
“Analytical Chemistry continues to move forward with trends in miniaturization, portability, and automation in instrumentation, as well as integration with artificial intelligence technology to improve analysis accuracy and efficiency. This is highly relevant to the increase in biomarker identification and analysis of complex biological molecules, which support increasingly personalized and holistic medicine for society,” she said. (Lp) (IAAS/FAE)
