Microfluidic Approaches in Water Quality Monitoring: An Insight and a Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Freshwater scarcity and water pollution pose significant global challenges, greatly impacting human well‐being. To address these issues, water quality monitoring plays a crucial role as a preventive measure in various water security initiatives worldwide. However, many traditional testing methods suffer from drawbacks such as low accuracy, limited mobility, and high operational costs. Fortunately, the emergence of microfluidic technology offers a promising avenue for the development of highly sensitive, portable, and cost‐effective water quality monitoring devices. In this study, a comprehensive review of recent advancements in microfluidic technology for water quality monitoring, water desalination, and water purification is provided. The potential for future developments in this field is highlighted, empowering researchers to create innovative water monitoring kits and optimize existing techniques. By harnessing the capabilities of microfluidics, the accuracy, portability, and affordability of water quality monitoring can be enhanced, ultimately addressing the global water challenges we face.