Luminometric Label Array for Quantification and Identification of Metal Ions

Quantification and identification of metal ions has gained interest in drinking water and environmental analyses. We have developed a novel label array method for the quantification and identification of metal ions in drinking water. This simple ready-to-go method is based on the nonspecific interactions of multiple unstable lanthanide chelates and nonantenna ligands with sample leading to a luminescence signal profile, unique to the sample components. The limit of detection at ppb concentration level and average coefficient of variation of 10% were achieved with the developed label array. The identification of 15 different metal ions including different oxidation states Cr3+/Cr6+, Cu+/Cu2+, Fe2+/Fe3+, and Pb2+/Pb4+ was demonstrated. Moreover, a binary mixture of Cu2+ and Fe3+ and ternary mixture of Cd2+, Ni2+, and Pb2+ were measured and individual ions were distinguished.