Optical sensors for inorganic arsenic detection.

The measurement of arsenic has received considerable attention due to its contaminant to environment and harm on human safety. This paper provides an overview of optical methods on the measurement of inorganic arsenic (arsenite and arsenate). We present and discuss the colorimetric, scattering, and fluorimetric strategies for inorganic arsenic detection based on the organic/biological molecules and their coupling with inorganic nanomaterials. The detection mechanism for arsenite and arsenate is summarized and the advantages/limitations are highlighted in the present review. In addition, prospects and future developments of optical sensors for arsenic analysis are also proposed. • Different optical methods for arsenics were reviewed. • The detection mechanism of optical methods was summarized. • The sensors with organic/biological molecules and nanomaterials were described. • The challenges and prospects in arsenic analysis were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]