Detection and characterization of chemical contaminants in water streams is paramount for water quality
and water security. The current trend of monitoring the presence of contaminants is the batch sampling
technique, where a sample of water is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. This method is not practical
in case of disasters. A modified cladding Polyaniline based sensor is developed that can detect ammonia
and hydrochloric acid. The sensor showed a rapid reversible color change when exposed to
ammonia and hydrochloric acid. The change in intensity caused by the modified cladding is studied
parametrically which will help in the formulation of a correlation between response time, concentration of
chemical contaminant, and change in optical intensity. Includes 18 references, figures.