The overarching aim of this Research Topic is to advance the field of chemical sensing and analysis, focusing on some typical merged and emerging environmental contaminants. As we delve into the contributing articles, our objective is clear: to harness cutting-edge techniques and methodologies that empower us to detect and understand environmental contaminations with unprecedented precision. From the molecular detection to the application of novel nanotechnologies, each article contributes to a collective effort to enhance our analytical capabilities in the realm of environmental science.
Our exploration commences with a refined focus on an emerging contaminant of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), where a modified Total Oxidable Precursor (TOP) assay proves to be effective to unveil the unknown PFAS precursors (https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fchem.2023.1141182/full). This article sets the stage by enhancing the detection methodologies, illustrating the importance of precision in understanding PFAS' presence and impact on the environment. Our journey also culminates in a molecular detection approach, utilising time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) to identify PFASs in water (https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fchem.2023.1253685/full). This sophisticated technique provides molecular-level insights, offering a streamlined solution for environmental forensic analysis of PFASs in wastewater. After many years of research, the detection of PFAS is still a challenge and more research is needed, as highlighted in this topic.Moving forward, the journey takes us into the microscopic world of microplastics and nanoplastics released from kitchen sealants, where advanced Raman imaging becomes a powerful tool for environmental monitoring (https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fchem.2023.1165523/full). This work not only identifies contaminants but also underpins the role of sophisticated imaging techniques in uncovering hidden threats. The narrative seamlessly transitions to the realm of flow cytometry, offering the refined detection protocols for microplastics and nanoplastics (https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fchem.2023.1201734/full). This article, too, underscores the significance of innovative analytical techniques, providing a clear picture of emerging contaminants in environmental matrices. So far, there is absent of the standardised monitoring approach for microplastics, even less for nanoplastics. Consequently, we have a very limited knowledge about their sources, fate, toxicity and risk. As collected in this journal, more research efforts should be endeavoured to mitigate this emerging contamination.The synthesis of vancomycin-functionalized fluorescent gold nanoparticles takes centre stage as well, introducing a highly selective assay for the detection of mercury (II) (https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fchem.2023.1238631/full). This work not only addresses the urgency of mercury detection, simplifies the detection protocol, but also showcases the potential of nanotechnology in precise environmental monitoring.
As we reflect on these contributions, the broader context comes into focus. The amalgamation of analytical techniques, chemometrics (such as principal component analysis PCA to analyse hyper spectrum of Raman or mass spectrum), nanotechnologies, and molecular-level investigations highlights the multidisciplinary nature of chemical sensing in environmental science. Each article, while contributing unique insights, collectively reinforces the interconnectedness of environmental challenges and the need for a holistic approach to analytical methodologies.
This research topic not only signifies individual achievements but also charts a course for the future of chemical sensing in environmental science. The refined detection methodologies, innovative imaging techniques, and molecular-level insights presented in these articles collectively pave the way for a more comprehensive understanding of environmental contaminants. As we absorb the knowledge encapsulated in these studies, we are reminded that the quest for environmental awareness is an evolving narrative, with each study adding a layer to the story of chemical sensing and environmental analysis.
