Squid-inspired sensor detects overexposure to UV rays

Exposure to ultraviolet rays over a certain period of time causes many effects that may adversely affect human health. A new sensor was developed inspired by the color changing abilities of squid that help them adapt to their environment, and changes color and alerts the user when overexposure to ultraviolet rays.

will protect from ultraviolet rays

Northeastern University scientists have developed a sensor to protect people from excess UV rays emitted by the sun. The sensor uses a pigment called xanthomatine, which gives squid its visible color.

Testing its usability in a daily environment, scientists observed that xanthomatine changed color when exposed to ambient light on the laboratory bench. One of the team members, who works on paper-based microfluidics, stated that a sensor could be created that dyes small pieces of paper with xanthomatine pigment and activates the system with the push of a button.

As a result of improvements, the team was able to produce a sensor with a xanthomatine-coated paper that responds to UV rays and changes from a yellow/orange color to red when exposed to UV rays for long periods of time.

The research team states that it can be integrated into materials for a variety of applications, such as apparel or other consumer products, such as a shorts or swimsuit. Users will be able to activate the system with the button on it and protect themselves by observing the color changes when they think that they will be exposed to sunlight too much.

Team , states that the developed sensor can be used not only to monitor exposure to ultraviolet rays, but also to understand if a surface has been exposed to UV rays long enough to be completely sterilized.