Investigation of the role of selenium forms in biological systems (soil, plants, and animals)

Abstract

This doctoral thesis focuses on the development of advanced analytical and nanomaterial-based strategies for the detection, characterisation, and application of selenium forms in food and environmental systems. The work integrates atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS), fluorescence sensing, and nanotechnology to address critical challenges in selenium speciation and monitoring. A modified hydride generation AFS method was developed for sensitive detection of hydrogen selenide, with improved efficiency through instrumental optimisation. In parallel, green-synthesised carbon nanodots (CNDs) and selenium-based nanohybrids were designed and evaluated as rapid fluorescence sensors for the selective detection of elemental selenium and mercury ions in complex matrices. The thesis further explores nanomaterial behaviour, selectivity mechanisms, and real-sample applicability. Overall, this research bridges analytical chemistry and nanotechnology, providing scalable, cost-effective approaches for trace element detection with relevance to food safety, environmental monitoring, and nano-enabled sensing platforms.