Interfacing Microfabricated and Nanomaterial-Based Sensors with a Modular Environmental Monitoring System

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and nanomaterial-based sensors are increasingly important in environmental monitoring. A new modular software and hardware platform called "SALAMANDER" (serial amphibious linear arrays of micro and nano devices for environmental research) provides an electronic interface for these devices as well as conventional sensors. The SALAMANDER platform enables environmental researchers and students to assemble an array of aquatic sensors at high spatial density, for fundamental studies of sediment transport. Specifications are given for integrating new sensor types such as sample collectors and chemical sensors for determining the composition of sediment in this multi-year project.