Bomb-Sniffing Plants Detect Explosives, Ground and Air Contaminants

MIT researchers have developed “bionic” plants with carbon nanoparticles embedded in their leaves that can detect explosives in real time, according to an article from Live Science.  The plants are reportedly sensitive to the key components of several explosives and can wirelessly relay information about the chemicals, when detected, to electronic devices.

Scientists reportedly believe the discovery is a step toward better monitoring of soil contamination. According to Live Science, the research group hopes to increase the number of sensors that can be applied to plants so the instruments can detect a variety of chemicals in the air and groundwater.

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